Shivam Dube Stars with Bat and Ball as India Crush Netherlands by 17 Runs
India maintained their flawless record in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 with a commanding 17-run win over the Netherlands in the Group A finale at the Narendra Modi Stadium. All-round brilliance from Shivam Dube, who smashed a blistering half-century and claimed two key wickets, proved decisive as India posted a challenging total and defended it effectively.
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, India got off to a shaky start with Abhishek Sharma departing for a duck. Ishan Kishan provided a brisk 18, while Tilak Varma (31) and captain Suryakumar Yadav (34) steadied the innings with composed knocks.
However, the real fireworks came from Shivam Dube, who unleashed carnage in the middle overs. His explosive 66 came off just 31 balls, featuring 4 fours and 6 towering sixes, turning the momentum decisively in India's favor.
Hardik Pandya chipped in with a quick 30 towards the end, helping India reach a formidable 193/6 in their 20 overs.For the Netherlands, Logan van Beek picked up 3 wickets, and Aryan Dutt claimed 2, but they couldn't contain Dube's onslaught.
Chasing 194, the Netherlands showed fight with contributions from Bas de Leede (33), Colin Ackermann (23), and Zach Lion-Cachet (26). They kept the chase alive for a while but crumbled under pressure from India's bowlers. Spinner Varun Chakravarthy was exceptional, conceding just 14 runs and taking 3 wickets to derail the middle order.
Shivam Dube added 2 wickets with the ball, while Jasprit Bumrah picked up one as the Netherlands finished at 176/7 in their allotted overs.
This victory marks India's fourth consecutive win in the group stage, ensuring they top Group A without a single defeat and carry an unbeaten streak into the Super 8.In the Super 8 stage (Group 1), India will face tough challenges: South Africa on February 22 in Ahmedabad, Zimbabwe on February 26 in Chennai, and West Indies on March 1 in Kolkata.
With their current form, particularly Dube's all-round impact and a strong bowling unit, India look poised to continue their winning momentum in the quest for the title.Shivam Dube was named Player of the Match for his match-winning performance with both bat and ball.