Birmingham, August 27:

Ian Bell’s third fifty in as many matches was the cornerstone of England’s 42-run win against India at Edgbaston here on Monday as they took a 2-1 lead in the seven-match series. Bell made 79 in England’s total of 281-8.

Sourav Ganguly (72) and captain Rahul Dravid (56) gave India the upperhand during a third wicket stand of 104 in 115 balls. But when both senior batsmen fell in quick succession to Chris Tremlett, England had renewed hope and India were bowled out for 239 with 11 balls left. Tremlett finished with 2-57 and James Anderson took 3-32.

Bell’s innings followed scores of 126 not out in England’s 104-run series-opening win at the Rose Bowl and his 64 during India’s nine run victory in Bristol on Friday.

India’s spinners, who’d taken important wickets in Bristol, did so again at Edgbaston with off-break bowler Ramesh Powar leading the way with 2-45.