5th ODI: Bell ton gives England consolation win

Despite losing series, tourists pleased to overcome India in last ODI.

In a surprising turn of events, Ian Bell’s unbeaten knock of 113 helped England to register an imposing seven-wicket win over India in their fifth and last One-Day International (ODI) series at Dharamsala yesterday.

This was the first overseas ODI century for man-of-the-match Bell who shared in a three 50-runs stand as England successfully chased the target of 227 for a loss of just three wickets. Tim Bresnan was equally impressive with four wickets for 45.

Earlier, India got off to a shaky start with Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Yuvraj Singh and Gautam Gambhir being dismissed in quick succession before the hosts reached 50. It was largely due to man-of-the-series Suresh Raina’s knock of 83 that they were able to post a decent 226 by the end of their innings.

England captain Alastair Cook said that despite losing the series, England was going back home on a high thanks to their brilliant performance in the last match.

“It was a good win, our bowlers bowled really well,” said Cook according to ESPNcricinfo. “Our top four got runs and Bell played a fantastic knock. It was important to stick around with wickets in hand. We have good positives to take from this series. It has been a fantastic three months in India.”

Published in The Express Tribune, January 28^th, 2013.