Bopara, Shahzad star as England beat India in WCL 2025 clash

England Champions outclassed India Champions in the World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2025 with a 23-run win at Headingley on Sunday.

Batting first after losing the toss, England posted a huge total of 223 for 3 in 20 overs, thanks to a brilliant unbeaten century from Ravi Bopara. The all-rounder smashed 110 runs off just 55 balls, hitting eight sixes and eight fours in a dominant display.

Ian Bell provided solid support with 54 runs from 39 balls, while Moeen Ali added a quick-fire 33 off 13 deliveries. Samit Patel also chipped in with 20 runs off just nine balls.

For India, Harbhajan Singh was the most effective bowler, finishing with 2 for 18 in three overs. Varun Aaron picked up one wicket but conceded 34 runs.

In reply, India Champions gave a good fight but were restricted to 200 for 8 in their 20 overs. Yusuf Pathan top-scored with 52 off 29 balls, including two sixes and six boundaries. Yuvraj Singh made 38 off 27 balls, while Stuart Binny (35) and Ambati Rayudu (28) also made useful contributions.

However, England kept taking wickets at regular intervals, making it hard for India to keep up with the required run rate.

Ajmal Shahzad was the star with the ball, claiming 4 for 31 in his four overs. Stuart Meaker took two wickets, while Bopara and Ryan Sidebottom picked up one each.