England Champions delivered a commanding performance to eliminate India Champions from the World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2025 with a 23-run victory at Headingley on Sunday.
Opting to bat first after losing the toss, England piled up an imposing total of 223/3 in 20 overs, thanks to a stunning unbeaten century from Ravi Bopara, who smashed 110 off just 55 balls, including 8 sixes and 8 fours in a vintage display of power hitting.
He was ably supported by Ian Bell, who scored a composed 54 off 39, while Moeen Ali contributed a quick 33 off 13. Samit Patel added finishing touches with 20 off 9 as England cruised to a huge total.
In response, India Champions started aggressively but fell short, managing 200/8 despite a spirited effort. Yusuf Pathan led the charge with 52 off 29 balls, while Yuvraj Singh (38), Stuart Binny (35), and Ambati Rayudu (28) chipped in with valuable knocks.
However, wickets at key moments derailed India’s chase. England’s bowlers, especially Ajmal Shahzad, who took a match-winning 4/31, were clinical. Stuart Meaker grabbed two wickets, and Bopara along with Ryan Sidebottom took one apiece to seal the win.
With this result, England Champions advanced in the tournament, while India Champions crashed out of the WCL 2025, ending their campaign on a disappointing note.