Bopara Blitz Powers England Champions Past India in WCL

Ravi Bopara produced a stunning all-round display of ball-striking as England Champions beat India Champions by 21 runs in the World Championship of Legends on Sunday in Sharjah.

Bopara smashed 83 off just 46 balls at the heart of England's innings, guiding his side to an imposing 192 for 4 from their 20 overs. Chasing under lights, India never quite got going and finished on 171 for 8 — 21 runs short of the target.

The defeat was India's second outing of WCL Season 3, which runs from 3 to 18 October across Sharjah and Dubai with the final set for 18 October. It followed their commanding 46-run opening win over Australia Champions on 3 October, when India posted 196 for 7 behind Yuvraj Singh's 71 off 44 balls.

England's bowlers held their nerve in the closing overs, mixing clever changes of pace with tight lines to deny India the late surge they needed. The result keeps England well placed in the early tournament standings.

The Legends tournament continues to draw large crowds of nostalgic fans eager to see retired greats back in competitive action, with several more star-studded clashes scheduled across the Emirates this week.