MOHALI, Nov 29:  India took a 2-0 lead in the five-match series by beating England by eight wickets in the third test on Tuesday.

The hosts finished at 104-2 in 20.2 overs, chasing down the 103-run target with ease.

Parthiv Patel struck his fifth test half-century and spearheaded the short run-chase after tea. He was unbeaten on 67 runs at the end, facing 54 deliveries in all, with 11 fours and a six.

He put on 81 runs for the second wicket with Cheteshwar Pujara (25). The duo scored at a healthy rate as India's 50 came up off only 64 balls.

Their 50-partnership came off 62 balls. Patel reached his half-century off only 39 balls.

Early in the session, England spent their two DRS reviews in a desperate search of wickets. Both reviews, one each against Patel (lbw) and Pujara (caught behind), were turned down.

With the finish in sight, Pujara was caught sweeping off Adil Rashid (1-28). Patel and Virat Kohli (6 not out) then completed the victory.

India won the second test in Visakhapatnam by 246 runs. The first test in Rajkot was drawn.

The third test begins in Mumbai on Dec. 8.

 
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