Shivam Dube produced the defining innings of his T20 International career on January 28, even though the scoreboard didn’t reflect the impact of his knock. The left-handed all-rounder smashed a breathtaking 65 off just 23 balls in the fourth T20I against New Zealand, registering his highest T20I score to date. Dube reached his half-century in only 15 deliveries, making it the third-fastest T20I fifty by an Indian batter, a remarkable feat that underlined his growing reputation as a power-hitter.
Despite the records, Shivam Dube walked off unlucky, with fans and experts united in their disbelief at how such a sensational innings ended. Many felt no batter deserved to depart after producing a counter-attack of that quality under immense pressure.
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Chasing a daunting target of 216 in Visakhapatnam, India found themselves in deep trouble early. The top order collapsed, and the hosts were reeling at 82 for five in just 10.3 overs. With the required rate soaring and momentum firmly with New Zealand, Dube stood tall and launched a fearless assault on the bowlers. His innings, laced with three boundaries and seven towering sixes, briefly reignited hope and brought the crowd to life.
#indvsnz4tht20 #IndianCricket
Shivam Dube has shown his importance in the team.
What a knock by Great man Dube 65(23) and got Run out very unfortunately!#IshanKishan #T20WC2026 #SanjuSamson pic.twitter.com/LYFixQYukS— Trending 🆃🅾🅿🅸🅲 (@BusyRk) January 28, 2026
However, Shivam Dube’s lone resistance wasn’t enough to rescue India from defeat. New Zealand, who had earlier posted 215 for seven after being sent in to bat, bowled India out for 165 in 18.4 overs to secure a 50-run win. The victory helped the visitors reduce the series deficit to 3-1 in the five-match T20I series.
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While India have already sealed the series, Dube’s explosive knock stood out as a major positive. The fifth and final T20I will be played in Thiruvananthapuram on January 31, where India will look to finish the series strongly, with Dube’s form offering plenty of encouragement.
