India captain Iyer in the mire following another T20I series loss

Oh how the mighty have fallen. India won 12 consecutive T20I series leading up to their 2026 World Cup win in March.

But the rest of 2026 has, so far, been a disaster. Minnows Ireland earned an historic 2-0 series win over India last month and Thursday's nine-wicket shellacking saw more history as England secured a first-ever T20I series win over India.

India spluttered to 158/7 in Bristol on Thursday before Phil Salt and Harry Brook put them to the sword.

"It was a disappointing one," reflected Iyer post-match.

"158 wasn't a perfect total on the board and eventually we saw how quickly they chased it down.

"When we came out to bowl I just asked the bowlers to repeat the length as much as possible because top of middle and leg stump were hard to get away. I think we were a bit short on our execution. When we tried change of pace or something else they got boundaries.

"This is a transition phase and we will be making a lot of mistakes. A lot of youngsters were playing in these conditions for the first time. Mistakes will be important to realise how we need to adapt in overseas conditions. Important to learn quickly."

There was, however, a small silver lining. Iyer was superlative ableit man-alone in his sparkling 80 from 49 balls that included five sixes. But the captain found little comfort in that.

"Happy with my performance, but when it's not in a winning cause, it goes to the side," he continued.

"So want to contribute to wins."

The fifth and final T20I takes place in Southampton on Saturday and India will be playing for more than pride as their world number one ranking is on the line.