BRISTOL — England defeated India by 26 runs in the second women's T20 match in Bristol in June 2024. Freya Kemp played a decisive role with both bat and ball in the victory.

England posted 168 for 5 in their 20 overs after scoring only 34 runs in the powerplay. Kemp came in to bat at number six with England at 116 for 4 in the 17th over and scored 39 not out from just 13 balls. Her innings included four fours and two sixes, giving her a strike rate of 300—the highest by any England woman in an international innings of 20 or more runs.

In response, India began their chase strongly, reaching 70 for 1 in the ninth over. However, their momentum stalled as they finished at 142 for 9. India needed 39 runs from the last two overs but fell short. Yastika Bhatia was retired out for 33 off 36 balls, marking the first time that tactic has been used in a women’s T20 match between full member nations.

Kemp also contributed with the ball, taking 2 wickets for 15 runs in her spell. She dismissed Smriti Mandhana, who had scored 32, by having her caught at deep square leg. Kemp then bowled Jemimah Rodrigues with a slower ball. Her return to bowling came after more than a year of restrictions due to a back injury.

England dropped two catches during the match, but Kemp’s all-round performance ensured the team secured the win. The series between England and India is now level ahead of a deciding match in Taunton. England’s opening match of the Women’s T20 World Cup is scheduled for June 12 at Edgbaston.

Kemp’s innings provided a late surge that lifted England from a below-par position to a competitive total. Her bowling spell came at a critical juncture, helping to curb India’s chase after their strong start.