Ahmedabad, Feb 18 (UNI) A fine all-round effort by Shivam Dube helped India seize control against the Netherlands in their Group A clash of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at the Narendra Modi Stadium here on Wednesday.
Dube not only struck a blistering half-century to power India to a formidable 193 for six after opting to bat, but also chipped in with two crucial wickets as the Netherlands were restricted to 176 for seven in 20 overs.
Earlier, walking in at a critical juncture with India needing momentum, Dube turned the tide with a sensational 66 off just 31 balls, hammering four boundaries and six towering sixes at a strike rate of 212.90. His calculated assault in the middle overs and explosive finish ensured India posted a challenging total.
India had a shaky start after losing early wickets, but Dube steadied the innings with skipper Suryakumar Yadav, adding a vital partnership that revived the hosts.
While Suryakumar contributed a steady knock, it was Dube’s fearless strokeplay that lifted the run rate. India plundered heavily in the death overs, with Dube targeting both pace and spin with equal authority.
Defending 194, Dube made his presence felt with the ball as well. He removed Bas de Leede (33) at a crucial stage and later dismissed the dangerous Zach Lion-Cachet (26), breaking a flourishing partnership that had threatened to tilt the contest.
The Netherlands had useful contributions from Michael Levitt (24), Max O’Dowd (20) and Colin Ackermann (23), while Noah Croes remained unbeaten on 25 off 12 balls in a late surge. However, regular wickets prevented them from mounting a sustained chase.
Varun Chakaravarthy was the pick of the Indian bowlers with three for 14, while Jasprit Bumrah conceded just 17 runs in his three overs and claimed one wicket.
The Netherlands eventually finished at 176 for seven, falling short by 17 runs as Dube’s all-round brilliance proved decisive in India’s favour.
