The cricketing world is buzzing with excitement as the India Women’s cricket team, led by the dynamic Harmanpreet Kaur, takes on England Women in the highly anticipated fourth T20I of their five-match series at Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester, on July 9, 2025. With India holding a 2-1 lead, this match is pivotal for both teams—India aims to seal the series with a victory, while England fights to level the scoreline and keep their hopes alive for a series decider at Edgbaston. This article provides comprehensive live score updates, an in-depth pitch report, key player performances to watch, and expert insights into this thrilling encounter.
A Thrilling Series So Far
The India Women vs England Women T20I series has been a rollercoaster of emotions for cricket fans. India kicked off the series with a commanding 97-run victory in Nottingham, showcasing their batting prowess and disciplined bowling attack. Smriti Mandhana’s scintillating century and Shree Charani’s remarkable four-wicket haul set the tone for India’s dominance. The second match in Bristol saw India continue their winning streak with a 24-run victory, thanks to half-centuries from Amanjot Kaur and Jemimah Rodrigues, who steadied the ship after an early collapse.
However, England bounced back in the third T20I at The Oval, pulling off a nail-biting five-run win to keep the series alive. Sophia Dunkley’s explosive 75 off 53 balls and Danielle Wyatt-Hodge’s 66 off 42 powered England to a formidable 171, while their bowlers, led by Lauren Bell, held their nerve in the final over to restrict India to 166/5. Despite Smriti Mandhana’s valiant fifty, India fell short, with captain Harmanpreet Kaur and Richa Ghosh unable to guide the team across the finish line. This loss has added intrigue to the series, making the fourth T20I a must-watch clash.
The Stakes at Old Trafford
As the teams head to Manchester, the stakes couldn’t be higher. A win for India would secure their first-ever T20I series victory on English soil, a historic milestone ahead of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in 2026, which will be hosted in England. For England, a victory is crucial to level the series at 2-2 and set up a thrilling finale in Birmingham. With England missing their regular captain, Nat Sciver-Brunt, due to a groin injury, stand-in skipper Tammy Beaumont will be under pressure to rally her squad against a formidable Indian side.
India, despite their loss in the third match, remains the team to beat. Their batting depth, led by Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma, combined with a versatile bowling attack featuring Deepti Sharma and Shree Charani, gives them a slight edge. However, England’s spirited comeback in the third T20I, fueled by their top-order firepower and disciplined bowling, proves they are no pushovers. The fourth T20I promises to be a battle of skill, strategy, and nerve.
Old Trafford Pitch Report: What to Expect
Old Trafford, Manchester, is hosting a Women’s T20I for the first time since 2012, when England comfortably defended 150 against West Indies. The venue has a rich cricketing history, having hosted 13 T20I matches with an average first-innings score of 154. The highest total posted at this ground is 199/5 by England against Pakistan, a score that was successfully chased, highlighting the venue’s potential for high-scoring encounters. However, the pitch report for the fourth T20I suggests a balanced surface that offers opportunities for both batters and bowlers.
Pitch Characteristics
The Old Trafford pitch is known for being batting-friendly, especially with its shorter boundaries, which encourage aggressive stroke play. Pacers can expect early movement, particularly under overcast conditions, which are common in Manchester. As the match progresses, spinners like Deepti Sharma and Sophie Ecclestone are likely to find assistance as the surface wears down. The data shows that teams bowling first have won six out of 13 T20Is at this venue, while teams batting first have won four. Interestingly, all three matches in this series so far have been won by the team batting first, suggesting that setting a competitive total could be key.
Weather Conditions
The weather in Manchester on July 9, 2025, is expected to be mild, with temperatures around 21°C and a 25% chance of light rain, which could cause brief interruptions. Humidity levels will hover around 60%, and a moderate wind speed of 13 km/h may influence swing bowling early in the game. Captains will need to factor in these conditions when deciding whether to bat or bowl first at the toss.
Live Score Updates: Key Moments from the 4th T20I
As of the latest updates from the match, England won the toss and elected to bat first, a decision that aligns with the series trend of teams setting a target. Both teams have fielded unchanged line-ups, reflecting confidence in their current squads. Here’s a snapshot of the early action:
- England’s Powerplay: England openers Danielle Wyatt-Hodge and Sophia Dunkley started cautiously but found their rhythm against India’s new-ball bowlers, Amanjot Kaur and Shree Charani. By the 4.5-over mark, England reached 32/1, with Dunkley hitting a boundary off Charani. Earlier, Charani struck with a six-run over, dismissing one of the openers to give India an early breakthrough.
- India’s Bowling Strategy: Deepti Sharma shared the new ball with Amanjot Kaur, aiming to exploit early movement. Deepti’s tight lines restricted England to a single in her first over, while Charani’s pace troubled the batters, leading to a wicket.
- England’s Response: Despite the early loss, England’s batters, led by Dunkley, looked to capitalize on the batting-friendly surface. Tammy Beaumont, batting lower down, played a crucial role in stabilizing the innings, as seen in her gritty approach in the third T20I.
For real-time updates, fans can follow live scorecards on platforms like ESPNcricinfo, Cricbuzz, and NDTV Sports, which provide ball-by-ball commentary and detailed statistics.
Key Players to Watch
Both teams boast a mix of experienced stars and emerging talents, making this match a showcase of women’s cricket at its finest. Here are the players who could turn the game in their team’s favor:
India Women
- Smriti Mandhana: The elegant left-hander has been India’s batting mainstay, scoring a century in the first T20I and a fifty in the third. With 3942 runs in 145 WT20I innings, Mandhana’s ability to pace an innings makes her a prime candidate for Player of the Match.
- Deepti Sharma: The all-rounder has been a revelation with both bat and ball. Her 3/27 in the third T20I showcased her ability to break partnerships, and her 144 wickets in GabbanaBettingID=80 80 WT20I innings make her a critical asset.
- Shree Charani: The young pacer made headlines with a four-wicket haul on debut in the first T20I. Her pace and bounce could trouble England’s batters on the lively Old Trafford pitch.
- Harmanpreet Kaur: India’s captain has been under pressure due to her recent form, but her aggressive batting style could be a game-changer if she finds her rhythm. Fans will hope she delivers a match-defining knock.
England Women
- Sophia Dunkley: Fresh off a match-winning 75 in the third T20I, Dunkley is in top form. Her aggressive powerplay batting could set the tone for England’s innings.
- Danielle Wyatt-Hodge: With 66 runs in the third T20I, Wyatt-Hodge’s experience and attacking style make her a key player in England’s top order.
- Lauren Filer: The young pacer’s 2/30 in the third T20I highlighted her ability to unsettle batters with pace and bounce. She could exploit early movement at Old Trafford.
- Sophie Ecclestone: The world-class spinner is a vital cog in England’s bowling attack. Her ability to control the middle overs could stifle India’s aggressive batting line-up.
Tactical Preview: Strategies for Success
India’s Game Plan
India’s strategy will likely revolve around their strong batting line-up setting or chasing a competitive total. Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma will aim to provide a solid start, allowing middle-order batters like Jemimah Rodrigues and Harmanpreet Kaur to accelerate. The bowling unit, led by Deepti Sharma and Shree Charani, will focus on early wickets to disrupt England’s momentum. Deepti’s spin and Charani’s pace could be particularly effective in the middle overs, while Radha Yadav’s variations might prove crucial in the death overs.
England’s Approach
England, under Tammy Beaumont’s leadership, will rely on their top order to post or chase a big total. Sophia Dunkley and Danielle Wyatt-Hodge’s aggressive batting will be key in the powerplay, while Alice Capsey’s all-round skills could provide balance. The bowling attack, featuring Sophie Ecclestone and Lauren Filer, will aim to exploit the pitch’s early movement and later spin-friendly conditions. England’s death bowling, as demonstrated by Lauren Bell in the third T20I, will be critical in defending totals or restricting India’s chase.
Why This Match Matters
The fourth T20I is more than just a series-deciding match; it’s a preview of what’s to come in the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. India’s potential series win on English soil would send a strong message to their rivals, while England’s fightback would boost their confidence as hosts of the upcoming global event. The absence of Nat Sciver-Brunt adds an extra layer of challenge for England, but their depth and resilience make them a formidable opponent.
For India, this match is an opportunity to overcome the disappointment of the third T20I, where they let a winnable game slip away. Harmanpreet Kaur’s leadership will be under scrutiny, and her ability to lead from the front with the bat could be the difference. The performances of young stars like Shree Charani and veterans like Deepti Sharma will also be crucial in maintaining India’s edge.
How to Follow the Action
Fans can catch the live telecast of the India Women vs England Women 4th T20I on Sony Sports Network in India, with streaming available on SonyLiv and FanCode apps. For real-time updates, platforms like ESPNcricinfo, Cricbuzz, and India Today offer ball-by-ball commentary and live scorecards. The match begins at 11:00 PM IST (5:30 PM GMT), with the toss scheduled for 10:30 PM IST.
Predictions and Expectations
Given the form of both teams, the fourth T20I is expected to be a closely contested affair. India’s batting depth and versatile bowling give them a slight advantage, but England’s home advantage and momentum from the third T20I make them dangerous. The pitch’s balanced nature suggests a high-scoring game, with totals around 160-180 likely to be competitive. The team that handles pressure better in the death overs could emerge victorious.
Key Factors to Watch
- Toss Decision: With batting first proving successful in the series, the toss could be crucial. England’s decision to bat first aligns with this trend, but India’s strong chasing record at Old Trafford (based on men’s T20I data) could make bowling first advantageous.
- Powerplay Performance: The team that dominates the powerplay, either with runs or wickets, often sets the tone. India’s openers and England’s top order will be critical.
- Middle Overs Battle: Spinners like Deepti Sharma and Sophie Ecclestone could dictate the game’s flow in the middle overs, where run rates tend to slow down.
- Death Overs Execution: England’s Lauren Bell and India’s Arundhati Reddy will play pivotal roles in the final overs, where tight bowling can make all the difference.
The Bigger Picture
This series is a testament to the growing popularity and competitiveness of women’s cricket. Both teams have showcased exceptional talent, from Smriti Mandhana’s elegant stroke play to Sophia Dunkley’s aggressive batting and Deepti Sharma’s all-round brilliance. The fourth T20I at Old Trafford is not just a battle for series supremacy but a celebration of the sport’s evolution, with players pushing the boundaries of skill and strategy.
For Indian fans, a series win would be a historic achievement, reinforcing their team’s status as a global powerhouse. For England, leveling the series would be a statement of intent, proving their depth despite the absence of key players. As the cricketing world watches, Old Trafford is set to witness a spectacle of talent, passion, and determination.
India Women vs England Women 4th T20I – Match Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Match | India Women vs England Women – 4th T20I, 5-Match Series |
| Date | July 9, 2025 |
| Venue | Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester, England |
| Series Score Before Match | India leads 2-1 |
| Match Significance | India aims to win the series; England seeks to level it 2-2 |
| Start Time | 11:00 PM IST (5:30 PM GMT) |
| Toss Result | England Women won the toss and elected to bat first |
| Broadcast & Streaming | Sony Sports Network, SonyLiv, FanCode (India) |
| Live Score Updates | ESPNcricinfo, Cricbuzz, NDTV Sports, India Today |
Venue and Pitch Conditions
| Parameter | Old Trafford Pitch Report |
|---|---|
| Avg. 1st Innings Score | 154 (from 13 previous T20Is) |
| Highest Total | 199/5 by England vs Pakistan |
| Weather Forecast | 21°C, partly cloudy, 25% chance of rain, moderate wind (13 km/h) |
| Pitch Nature | Balanced – batting-friendly with assistance for pacers and spinners |
| Best Toss Strategy | Bat first – all three matches in this series have been won setting totals |
Key Player Performances So Far
| India Women | England Women |
|---|---|
| Smriti Mandhana – 100+ (1st T20I), 50 (3rd T20I) | Sophia Dunkley – 75 (3rd T20I) |
| Amanjot Kaur – 50+ (2nd T20I), Tight spells | Danielle Wyatt-Hodge – 66 (3rd T20I) |
| Deepti Sharma – 3/27 (3rd T20I), 140+ WT20I wickets | Lauren Bell – 2/28 (3rd T20I, death over specialist) |
| Shree Charani – 4 wickets (1st T20I debut) | Sophie Ecclestone – Key middle overs spinner |
Team Strategies
| India’s Tactical Approach | England’s Tactical Plan |
|---|---|
| Build strong powerplay via Mandhana & Shafali | Use Dunkley and Wyatt to dominate early overs |
| Control middle overs with Deepti’s spin and Charani’s pace | Utilize Ecclestone to restrict India’s run rate in the middle overs |
| Death over discipline with Arundhati & Radha Yadav | Lean on Lauren Bell and Filer for crucial death overs |
| Bounce back mentally from narrow 3rd T20I loss | Capitalize on momentum and home support to push for series equalizer |
What’s at Stake
| For India | For England |
|---|---|
| First-ever T20I series win on English soil | Keep series alive and force decider at Edgbaston |
| Boost morale ahead of ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 | Regain confidence without injured captain Nat Sciver-Brunt |
| Cement dominance and showcase bench strength | Showcase depth and leadership under Tammy Beaumont |
Critical Match Factors
| Factor | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Toss Outcome | Batting first has worked in this series; England followed this trend |
| Powerplay Overs | Both teams rely on top-order starts to gain momentum |
| Middle Overs Spin Battle | Deepti Sharma vs Sophie Ecclestone could decide the run flow |
| Death Over Execution | Bell (ENG) and Reddy (IND) must deliver under pressure |
| Captain’s Performance | Harmanpreet Kaur’s form under scrutiny; Beaumont leads in Sciver-Brunt’s absence |
How Fans Can Follow the Match
| Platform | Details |
|---|---|
| TV Broadcast | Sony Sports Network (India) |
| Streaming | SonyLiv App, FanCode |
| Live Scores | ESPNcricinfo, Cricbuzz, India Today, NDTV Sports |
| Match Start Time | 11:00 PM IST (Toss at 10:30 PM IST) |
Conclusion
The India Women vs England Women 4th T20I at Old Trafford, Manchester, on July 9, 2025, is poised to be a defining moment in this thrilling series. With India aiming to clinch the series and England fighting to stay alive, every ball promises excitement. The balanced pitch, talented squads, and high stakes ensure a match filled with drama and brilliance. Stay tuned for live updates, and don’t miss the action as these two cricketing giants battle for supremacy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – India Women vs England Women 4th T20I 2025
Q1. What is the significance of the 4th T20I between India Women and England Women?
A: The fourth T20I is a pivotal match in the five-match series, with India leading 2-1. A win for India would seal their first-ever T20I series victory on English soil, while a win for England would level the series and force a thrilling decider at Edgbaston.
Q2. When and where is the 4th T20I match being held?
A: The match is being played on July 9, 2025, at the historic Emirates Old Trafford Stadium in Manchester, England. It begins at 11:00 PM IST (5:30 PM GMT), with the toss scheduled for 10:30 PM IST.
Q3. Where can fans watch the live telecast or stream the match online?
A: Indian viewers can watch the live telecast on Sony Sports Network, and stream it via the SonyLiv and FanCode apps. International fans can follow ball-by-ball updates on ESPNcricinfo, Cricbuzz, and India Today.
Q4. Who won the toss in the 4th T20I, and what was their decision?
A: England Women won the toss and opted to bat first, continuing the trend of setting targets, which has worked in all previous matches of this series.
Q5. What is the pitch report for Old Trafford, Manchester?
A: The Old Trafford pitch is balanced and batting-friendly, with shorter boundaries. Seamers may get early movement under overcast skies, while spinners could come into play as the pitch wears. The average first innings score is 154 in T20Is here.
Q6. What are the expected weather conditions for the match?
A: The weather is forecast to be mild at 21°C, with 25% chance of light rain, 60% humidity, and moderate winds at 13 km/h, which may aid swing bowling early on.
Q7. Who are the standout players to watch from both teams?
A:
- India Women:
- Smriti Mandhana – Century in 1st T20I, 50 in 3rd
- Deepti Sharma – Star all-rounder with 3/27 in 3rd T20I
- Shree Charani – Rising pace star with 4 wickets on debut
- Harmanpreet Kaur – Aggressive skipper, crucial with the bat
- England Women:
- Sophia Dunkley – 75 in the 3rd T20I
- Danielle Wyatt-Hodge – 66 runs in previous match
- Lauren Filer – Impactful pacer with 2/30
- Sophie Ecclestone – World-class spinner, controls middle overs
Q8. How have the previous matches in the series gone?
A:
- 1st T20I (Nottingham): India won by 97 runs – Mandhana century, Charani 4-wicket haul
- 2nd T20I (Bristol): India won by 24 runs – Fifties from Amanjot and Jemimah
- 3rd T20I (The Oval): England won by 5 runs – Dunkley and Wyatt led the charge
Q9. What are the strategic keys to success for both sides?
A:
- India’s Strategy: Build strong powerplay momentum with Mandhana and Shafali, exploit spin via Deepti Sharma, and control death overs with Radha Yadav.
- England’s Strategy: Use Dunkley and Wyatt to dominate early, leverage Ecclestone in the middle overs, and finish strong with Lauren Bell in the death overs.
Q10. Why is this match considered important beyond just the series result?
A: This match serves as a prelude to the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026, which will be held in England. A series win for India would build immense confidence, while a comeback from England would demonstrate their depth and adaptability in the absence of Nat Sciver-Brunt.
Q11. Are there any injuries or notable changes in team line-ups?
A: Both teams have opted for unchanged line-ups for the 4th T20I. However, England continues to miss their regular captain Nat Sciver-Brunt due to a groin injury, with Tammy Beaumont leading the side.
Q12. What are the predicted winning totals and match expectations?
A: The pitch supports scores in the 160–180 range. The match is expected to be closely contested. Teams that win the powerplay and execute death overs effectively will have a major edge.