Shivam Dube Reflects on Nerve-Wracking Final Over in T20 World Cup Semi-Final
Dube's Determination Shines in T20 World Cup Semi-Final
Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], March 6: Shivam Dube, India's prominent all-rounder, expressed his confidence while bowling the last over against England during the T20 World Cup semi-final, where he had to defend a challenging 30 runs.
Despite feeling nervous, Dube was prepared to embrace the challenge. With Jacob Bethell having already scored a remarkable century off just 45 balls, Dube highlighted the importance of self-belief, which enabled him to stick to the game plan.
Bethell's impressive century ultimately went in vain as India triumphed over England by seven runs in a thrilling semi-final at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium, securing a place in the final against New Zealand, set for Sunday in Ahmedabad.
"I aimed to trust myself. I recognized that the first two deliveries of the over were critical, so I concentrated on executing them well, as they could determine the outcome of the match. It was already decided that I would bowl the last over. I was certainly anxious—bowling the final over in a World Cup semi-final is always a daunting task," Dube stated in a video released by the BCCI.
Dube's last over was filled with tension. Jacob Bethell was run out while attempting a second run on the first ball, and Dube allowed singles on the next two deliveries, reducing the runs needed by England to 27 from three balls.
Although Dube bowled a wide and faced three sixes from Jofra Archer, his initial deliveries had already secured India's victory.
In addition to his bowling, Dube contributed significantly with the bat, scoring 43 runs off 25 balls, including one four and two sixes, helping India achieve a formidable total of 253.
The defending champions, India, will face New Zealand in the T20 World Cup final on Sunday, March 8, at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
India advanced to the final after defeating England in Mumbai, while New Zealand secured their spot by overpowering South Africa in Kolkata.
The two teams previously met in the Champions Trophy final in 2025, and nearly a year later, they will clash again in the final of an ICC event.