England have capped their one-day series win against India with a six-wicket victory in Cardiff.
The hosts won the toss and put the visitors in to bat, and Ajinkya Rahane was dropped in the eighth over by Samit Patel off the bowling of Steve Finn, before being dismissed by Jade Dernbach for 26.
Rahul Dravid, making his final one-day appearance for India, hit a 69, which reiterated his position as the tourists’ most consistent performer over the summer. The 38-year-old was eventually bowled by Graeme Swann and was given a rousing reception by the England players and fans as he made his way to the pavilion.
Virat Kohli proved to be the most effective at the crease as he made a knock of 107 before clipping his own wicket with a trailing foot.
Meanwhile, captain MS Dhoni's 50 guided his side to 304 at the end of the innings, which was their highest score of the summer.
England’s time at the crease was delayed after a brief spell of rain, but once they were in they made a solid start.
Varinder Kumar bowled opener Craig Kieswetter lbw for 21 before another lengthier rain delay gave England a revised target of 241 off 34 overs.
Once play resumed, captain Alistair Cook made 50 before being bowled by Kohli, while Ian Bell struck up a partnership with Jonathan Trott before being caught by Manoj Tiwary at long off for 26.
Trott was stubborn in the middle and hit a number of boundaries to push England on, before being caught for 63 from 60 balls.
Ravi Bopara struck 37 and debutant Jonny Bairstow made a quickfire knock of 41 to secure the win.
England begin their Twenty20 series against the West Indies on Friday, September 23.
Jack Prescott
