England secured a 26-run victory over India in the second women's T20 international held in Bristol on June 1, 2026, leveling the three-match series 1-1 [1, 2]. Batting first, England posted a total of 168 for five wickets. The innings was lifted late by Freya Kemp, who scored an unbeaten 39 runs from just 13 balls at a striking rate of 300, including four fours and two sixes [1, 3, 2]. Kemp also contributed with the ball, taking two wickets for 15 runs, playing a key role in England's bowling attack that featured dismissals from Charlie Dean and Sophie Ecclestone as well [1, 2]. Kemp had been carefully managed over the summer due to a previous back injury and had bowled only six overs before this match [1, 2].
During India's chase, the side was dismissed for 142 for nine wickets. India’s innings included a rare instance when Yastika Bhatia retired out on 33 runs from 36 balls—a first in a women's T20 match between full member nations [1, 2]. Jemimah Rodrigues, who replaced Bhatia, was dismissed after facing only two balls [1, 2]. India captain Harmanpreet Kaur commented, "Yastika Bhatia is chugging along too slowly to chase down the required 60 runs from the final 30 balls," reflecting the pressure during the run chase [2].
England’s fielding was less tidy, with two catches dropped during India’s innings [1]. Reportedly, the Bristol match attracted a record attendance for a women's cricket game, further underlining the growing interest in the sport [2].
The three-match T20 series is now tied 1-1 with the final game scheduled to take place on June 2, 2026, in Taunton [1, 2]. The two teams will then prepare for the start of the Women's T20 World Cup at Edgbaston on June 12 [1, 2].
