AHMEDABAD: In a thrilling encounter at the T20 World Cup 2026, India clinched a 17-run victory over Netherlands in their 36th match, powered by a match-winning all-round performance from Shivam Dube. Named Player of the Match for his explosive 66-run knock and two crucial wickets, Dube opened up about the strategic instructions from captain and coach to maintain a high strike rate right from the middle overs.
Batting first, India posted a formidable 193 for 6, largely thanks to Dube’s half-century that featured six towering sixes and four boundaries in just 31 balls. Netherlands fought valiantly but fell short at 176 for 7 in their chase.
Reflecting on his innings, Dube said the pitch posed challenges with skid and low bounce, compounded by tricky spin. ‘The wicket was tricky, but that’s the kind of situation I love batting in,’ he noted. Facing pressure from an off-spinner who bowled four dot balls in an over, Dube stayed composed. ‘I knew I could recover later. When bowlers are good, you adapt rather than force boundaries.’
He credited his preparation for anticipating short and slower deliveries. ‘Captain and coach told me to ramp up the strike rate as soon as I come in during middle overs, but it depends on the situation. Today, I waited for the right moment to unleash.’
With the ball, Dube’s three overs yielded 2 for 35, showcasing his growing prowess. ‘I’ve been working hard on my bowling, and the results are showing in T20 cricket’s unpredictability.’ This win boosts India’s campaign, with Dube emerging as a key middle-order aggressor.