When India Women step out to play the second ODI against England Women on July 19, 2025, at Lords, one thought is at the back of the cricketing mind: can the England Women come back after this? The Indian team not only took the first blood in the series but also left a very strong message towards the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup later this year after a four-wicket clinch defeat hosted by Southampton.
This is not another bilateral series; this is a World Cup audition, a redemption story, and a Ford test at depth. The ex-champions, England, now look in the face of the loss of the home series, which is something that happens quite infrequently and which would sting even more in the current context of English white-ball games.
India’ s High on Momentum and Depth
India”s current squad is arguably the most balanced and dangerous they have fielded in years. Led by the calm and confident Harmanpreet Kaur, the visitors are building something special. Their recent tri-series win involving Sri Lanka and South Africa and now the victory in the first ODI point to a unit that is hitting its peak at just the right time.
Young stars like Kranti Gaud and Amanjout Kaur have stepped up in the absence of seasoned pacers like Renuka Singh and Pooja Vastrakar; Kranti’s two wickets with the new ball showed maturity beyond her years. The faith shown in her by the team management is paying off handsomely.
At the top, Pratika Rawal is emerging as a serious contender for a permanent opening spot. With Shafali Verma and Harleen Deol pushing hard, India”s top order has rich options. Deepthi Sharma, fresh off a Rishabh Pant-like one-handed six-winning match-winning knock in the opener, continues to be India”s MVP.
The spin department is overflowing with talent: Sree Charani, Sneha Rana, Deepti, and Radha Yadav form a lethal arsenal that can choke even the best lineups on any surface.
England’s Crisis of Confidence:
England, on the other hand, is in a spot of bother. The team led by Nat Sciver-Burnt lacks the ruthlessness of past generations. The defeat at Southampton marked their fifth consecutive ODI loss at home to India, a start that would have been unthinkable a few years ago.
Batting collapses, inconsistent bowling, and an overreliance on a few stars have made England vulnerable. Players like Sophie Ecclestone, Alice Capsey, and Tammy Beaumont have the pedigree but need to deliver now. Ecclestone”s lack of impact in the first ODI was surprising given her status as the world’s top-ranked spinner.
The absence of clarity in team roles is also hurting them. Are they rebuilding or competing? The answer isn’t clear. They will need their middle order to stand up and bowlers to be disciplined, especially in the death overs, if they are to keep the series alive.
Lord’s: A venue of history, pressure, and redemption.
The Mecca of cricket is not just another ground; it adds a layer of emotion, expectation, and legacy. For India, playing here is a celebration of progress. For England it could either be the start of a comeback or the site of another heartbreak.
The Pitch at Lord’s typically offers between bat and ball. With overcast conditions expected, seamers might find early movement making toss crucial. England’s fast bowlers like Lauren Bell and Kate Cross will be under pressure to deliver.
A Defining Day for Both Teams:
Saturday’s second ODI isn’t just another game for India. It’s a chance to seal the series and assert dominance away from home. For England it’s a battle for pride, belief, and momentum. Lose this, and the pressure only mounts with the World Cup approaching. The stage is set. The stakes are high. And the Cickert promises to be fiery. Can England bounce back? Or will India stamp their authority once again?
Sagnik Banerjee 
Soureesh Datta
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