
India’s Shivam Dube expressed his delight at contributing as an all-rounder in the team’s emphatic 150-run victory over England in the fifth and final T20I at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Sunday. With this win, India sealed the five-match series 4-1, showcasing a commanding performance in all departments.
Reflecting on his role in the game, Dube shared his excitement about getting the opportunity to bowl in the second innings. He credited India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel for helping him improve his angles and said he was eager to make an impact. “It feels great when you contribute as an all-rounder, which I have been doing for a long time. I was really excited to bowl. I could not do that in the last match, but I knew I would be bowling today,” Dube said. He also revealed that Abhishek Sharma, who had already starred with the bat, advised him to play his natural game. “Abhishek told me the wicket was good, play your shots. I didn’t want to bring the run rate down, so I just played my shots,” he added.
ALSO READ
The match began with England winning the toss and opting to bowl first. India’s batting was spearheaded by a sensational knock from Abhishek Sharma, who smashed 135 off just 54 balls, including seven fours and 13 sixes. His explosive innings propelled India to a formidable total of 247/9. England’s Brydon Carse led the bowling attack, picking up three wickets, while Mark Wood also claimed two.
In response, England struggled against India’s disciplined bowling attack and were bowled out for just 97 runs in 10.3 overs. Opener Philip Salt was the only batter to put up resistance, scoring 55 off 23 balls with seven boundaries and three sixes. However, none of the other English batters managed to make a significant contribution.
India’s bowlers delivered a dominant performance, ensuring a swift collapse of the England lineup. Abhishek Sharma, Shivam Dube, and Varun Chakravarthy picked up three wickets each, sealing a comprehensive victory for the hosts.
Abhishek Sharma was named the ‘Player of the Match’ for his exceptional all-round display, while Varun Chakravarthy was awarded the ‘Player of the Series’ for his consistent performances throughout the five-match contest. With this dominant win, India capped off the series on a high note, reaffirming their strength in T20 cricket.