One run-out, one collapse: How India’s chase fell apart at Vizag despite Shivam Dube’s blitz

Chasing 216 at the Vizag Stadium, India suffered a top-order collapse and lost momentum after Shivam Dube’s explosive knock ended in a crucial run-out, handing New Zealand a 50-run win.

Team India’s chase at the Vizag Stadium turned into a dramatic collapse as wickets kept falling at regular intervals, despite a breathtaking counter-attack by Shivam Dube. Chasing a stiff target of 216 runs, India were bowled out for 165, handing New Zealand a convincing 50-run victory and their first win of the series.

The chase began on a disastrous note for India. Abhishek Sharma was dismissed for a duck on the very first ball of the innings, putting immediate pressure on the batting unit. The early setback was followed by another blow when Suryakumar Yadav, who walked in at No.3, failed to settle and lost his wicket at the end of the second over.

Although Sanju Samson looked comfortable initially, he once again failed to convert his start into a big score. He was clean bowled by Mitchell Santner, leaving India struggling in the early stages of the chase.

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The pressure intensified when Hardik Pandya failed to make an impact. The all-rounder managed just two runs before being dismissed, further denting India’s hopes of a recovery.

A brief partnership between Rinku Singh and Shivam Dube provided some stability. Rinku played a composed knock, scoring 39 runs off 30 balls, before getting out. It was Shivam Dube, however, who completely changed the momentum with his fearless approach.

Dube announced his intent by smashing a six off his very first ball and went on to tear into the New Zealand bowling attack. He produced a stunning assault on Ish Sodhi, smashing 29 runs in a single over. Relying heavily on boundaries and sixes, Dube raced to a half-century in just 15 balls, sending shockwaves through the opposition camp.

Just when India looked back in the contest, the turning point arrived. Shivam Dube was run out for 65 runs, a dismissal that completely changed the match. After his departure, India’s chase lost direction.

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Wickets fell in quick succession as Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep Yadav were dismissed cheaply. With no resistance left, Team India were bowled out for 165.

New Zealand’s disciplined bowling and sharp fielding ensured a 50-run win, giving them crucial momentum in the series.

Sports Bureau

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