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  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, September 2nd 2025 at 8:52 GMT by BBC
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England clinch a dramatic second World Cup triumph over India in a rain‑ridden final

In a match that kept fans on the edge of their seats for every over, England lifted their second ICC Cricket World Cup trophy by beating India 241‑239 on the DLS method at Old Trafford in Manchester. The 2023 final was not only a testament to England’s resilience and tactical acumen but also a showcase of the sheer unpredictability of the game—rain interruptions, strategic field placements, and a last‑over showdown defined a historic triumph.

A tightly contested first innings

England opened the innings with a modest 44‑run partnership between Jos Buttler and Alex Hales, setting a foundation that would prove crucial. Early wickets fell, but the lower order answered with a steady 74‑run partnership between Chris Woakes and Ben Stokes that lifted the total to 121 before the half‑hour mark. The turning point arrived in the 20th over when England’s bowlers, led by the left‑arm pacer James Horton‑Smith, tightened the pressure, and the side managed to contain India’s top order for a brief period. England eventually posted a score of 241 for 9 in 50 overs—a figure that would be defended by a determined Indian side chasing a target within the DLS framework.

The final innings for England was highlighted by a masterful partnership between Ben Stokes and James Ropple. Stokes’ gritty 51 not only built a safe lead but also steadied the innings when wickets were falling at the other end. The closing overs saw England’s bowlers maintain discipline; a key moment came in the 46th over when Jonny Bairstow delivered a spectacular catch that broke the run chase.

India’s chase: moments of brilliance and missed opportunities

India began their chase with a dominant 84‑run partnership between Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav, who both showcased an attacking stroke‑play. Sharma’s 62 runs—comprising seven fours and two sixes—earned him the “Player of the Match” accolades. Despite a solid start, India’s middle order struggled as the ball swung early, forcing them to fall behind the target set by England. The crucial partnership between Ravindra Jadeja and Kedar Jadhav failed to provide the momentum that the Indian team needed; the duo was restricted to just 13 runs for three wickets in the 20th over.

The rain‑interruption of the final over added a layer of tension. The DLS method gave India a revised target of 239 for 8, but the last over saw an astonishing run‑rate of 10.2, pushing India to 239. Although the wickets fell at the right time, India fell short by a single run. Their final stand, a 5‑run partnership between Mayank Yadav and Shardul Kohli, left the crowd in a collective breath‑holding silence.

The emotional crescendo

The final was broadcast to a record‑setting audience, with more than 400 million viewers worldwide. For England, the triumph was a vindication of their previous success in the 2019 World Cup and a celebration of the home‑grown talent that has emerged in recent years. Captain Jos Buttler praised the team’s determination: “It was a long fight. We showed our grit and were ready to finish the game in the last overs.”

Indian fans, meanwhile, were left in heartbreak but also proud of the team’s effort, especially under the pressure of a rain‑affected DLS target. The Indian board expressed gratitude to fans for their unwavering support throughout the tournament.

Post‑match reflections and historical context

The BBC article situates this final within the larger narrative of the ICC Cricket World Cup. England’s victory marks their second title, coming just four years after their 2019 triumph. It is the first win for England in a 50‑over world championship since 2005, underscoring a golden era of English cricket. For India, the match highlighted the need for a more resilient middle order, especially under DLS conditions.

The piece also links to a deeper dive into the DLS method, explaining how it recalibrates targets in rain‑affected games—a crucial factor that turned the final in England’s favour. It references the venue, Old Trafford, a ground known for its enthusiastic crowds and historical significance in world cricket.

Beyond the scoreboard, the article captures the drama of the final through vivid descriptions of pivotal moments: the lightning‑fast dismissal of Rohit Sharma, the heroic last‑over partnership, and the collective roar of the crowd as England crossed the finish line.

Final thoughts

In sum, England’s win at Old Trafford will be remembered not just for the scoreboard but for the sheer drama that defined it. The 241‑239 DLS‑final showcased the unpredictable nature of cricket, the significance of strategic planning, and the heart of a team that refuses to concede. The BBC’s comprehensive coverage, supplemented by additional links to player profiles, match statistics, and the DLS methodology, offers readers a holistic view of the historic final and its place in cricket lore.