In a pulsating T20 World Cup 2026 clash, Shivam Dube’s all-round brilliance guided India to a 17-run victory against Netherlands, amassing 193/6 before bowling out the opponents for 176/7. Awarded Player of the Match for 66 runs laced with six maximums and four fours off 31 deliveries, plus two wickets, Dube disclosed the captain and coach’s clear mandate: spike the strike rate instantly in middle overs.
The surface in Ahmedabad demanded caution—skidding balls, uneven bounce, spinning deliveries. Dube embraced it. ‘Love these conditions; even under pressure from that off-spinner’s dot-heavy over, I knew recovery was coming.’
Strategic foresight defined his approach. ‘Bowlers aim to cramp me with short slower balls, no full tosses. I was waiting.’ Elaborating on instructions, ‘They told me to attack from middle overs entry, but today required patience before exploding.’
His penchant for power-hitting was evident, tempered by wisdom. ‘Sixes thrill me, but versus top bowling, you maneuver for the boundary feast.’ On bowling, ‘Relentless net sessions are delivering in T20’s hit-or-miss nature.’
Dube’s insights highlight tactical maturity, fortifying India’s World Cup charge with versatile firepower.