In a thrilling T20 World Cup 2026 encounter, Team India triumphed over the Netherlands with a commanding 17-run victory at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Shivam Dube, India’s formidable all-rounder, showcased his prowess with a spectacular innings of 66 runs from just 31 balls, featuring four boundaries and six sixes.
Legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar lauded Dube’s performance, noting that once he hones his inside-out shot, he could become an even more formidable opponent. “Shivam Dube is a challenging batsman to bowl to, thanks to his wide array of shots. Even if you pitch it outside off stump, he possesses the strength to send the ball soaring over long on. His capability extends beyond just mid-wicket and square-leg; he can clear long off too. If he dedicates time to perfecting the inside-out shot over extra cover, he’ll evolve into a truly intimidating batter. The progress Dube is making with every innings is promising for India,” Gavaskar commented.
In the second innings, mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy was a standout performer, claiming three wickets while conceding only 14 runs in three overs. Gavaskar expressed confidence in Chakaravarthy’s abilities, emphasizing his crucial role within the team. “Varun Chakaravarthy’s figures of three for 14 in four overs are outstanding. Taking wickets significantly hampers the opposition’s run flow. Clearly, Varun is set to be a key bowler for India. It will be fascinating to see how rival teams adjust to his bowling in the Super 8 stage,” he remarked.
Looking ahead, Team India is set to face South Africa in the Super 8 match, scheduled for February 22 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
India’s T20 World Cup 2026 Squad:
Suryakumar Yadav (C), Sanju Samson (WK), Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishan Kishan (WK), Rinku Singh, Mohammed Siraj, Washington Sundar, Shivam Dube, Abhishek Sharma, Varun Chakaravarthy, Arshdeep Singh, Tilak Varma.
(With ANI Inputs)