What turned the game in Ahmedabad? Shivam Dube’s 25-ball storm holds the answer

Shivam Dube’s blazing half-century and a strong middle-order effort powered Team India to a commanding total at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Team India produced a dominant batting display at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, posting a competitive total of 193 for six against the Netherlands, driven by a sensational knock from all-rounder Shivam Dube.

After winning the toss, captain Suryakumar Yadav opted to bat first. However, India faced an early setback as opener Abhishek Sharma was dismissed for a duck, once again failing to provide a strong start.

The recovery began through a steady partnership between Ishan Kishan and Tilak Varma. The duo added 29 runs for the second wicket. Kishan looked aggressive, scoring 18 runs off just seven balls with two boundaries and a six, before being run out in an unfortunate manner in the fifth over.

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Tilak Varma then took responsibility, anchoring the innings with a composed knock. He struck three boundaries and a six to score a valuable 31 runs, ensuring stability through the middle overs.

Captain Suryakumar Yadav continued his consistent form, contributing a brisk 34 off 28 deliveries, including two fours and a six, before departing at a crucial stage.

The momentum of the innings changed dramatically with the arrival of Shivam Dube at number five. The all-rounder unleashed a barrage of big hits, dismantling the Netherlands bowling attack. Dube smashed a stunning half-century off just 25 balls, electrifying the Ahmedabad crowd with his fearless stroke play.

He was well supported by Hardik Pandya, who played an aggressive cameo in the death overs. The duo added a rapid 76 runs off just 35 balls for the fifth wicket, shifting the match firmly in India’s favour.

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Dube eventually fell after a scintillating 66 off 31 balls, which included four boundaries and six towering sixes. Pandya chipped in with a quick 30, hitting three sixes, while Rinku Singh remained unbeaten on six.

At the end of 20 overs, India finished strongly at 193 for six, setting a challenging target for the Netherlands