Shivam Dube Was Steering India Towards Victory, One Costly Error Turned the Game in New Zealand’s Favour

India’s hopes of completing a clean sweep against New Zealand in the T20I series suffered a setback in Visakhapatnam, where the visitors clinched a 50-run win in the fourth match. While the result did not affect the series outcome—India had already sealed it by winning the first three games—the turning point of the contest proved to be the unfortunate dismissal of Shivam Dube, who was threatening to pull off an improbable chase for the hosts.

Chasing a stiff target of 216, India found themselves in deep trouble at 82 for 5, with the top and middle order failing to provide momentum. At that stage, the match appeared firmly in New Zealand’s control. However, Shivam Dube ignited hopes with a breathtaking counterattack that completely changed the complexion of the game.

Dube launched a ferocious assault on the New Zealand bowlers, bringing up his half-century in just 15 balls. His clean striking and fearless approach injected life into India’s chase, and for a brief period, it seemed that the impossible might be within reach if he stayed at the crease.

Unfortunately for India, Dube’s innings ended in dramatic and unlucky fashion. The incident occurred in the 15th over of the Indian innings, bowled by Matt Henry. On the final ball of the over, Harshit Rana struck a powerful straight drive. Henry managed to get a hand on the ball, which then deflected onto the stumps at the non-striker’s end. Dube, who was backing up and momentarily outside his crease, was adjudged run out.

The dismissal proved to be the decisive moment of the match. Dube walked back after a sensational knock of 65 off 23 balls, scoring at a staggering strike rate of 282.61. His innings featured three boundaries and seven towering sixes, and it had brought India back into the contest almost single-handedly.

After his departure, India’s resistance collapsed quickly. The lower order failed to provide support, and the team was bowled out for 165 in 18.4 overs, handing New Zealand a convincing 50-run victory.

Earlier, New Zealand had posted a formidable total of 215 for 7 after being put in to bat. Despite Dube’s valiant effort, his unfortunate run-out marked the turning point that allowed New Zealand to seize control and close out the match emphatically.