NEW DELHI: Shivam Dube scored an unbeaten 60 off 40 balls to help India defeat Afghanistan by six wickets in the opening match of the three-match T20I series at the Punjab Cricket Association IS Bindra Stadium in Mohali on Thursday.
Dube, who came to bat at number four, smashed two sixes and five fours in his match-winning knock. For his stupendous show, the allrounder was adjudged Man of the Match.
After taking India home in style, Dube spoke about the conversation he had with his captain
Rohit Sharma
.
"It (This innings) holds a special place in my heart as I've made a comeback to the Indian side after a considerable time. The opportunity given to me was crucial, and I felt a deep sense of importance. In a T20I game, especially during a chase, every batsman aims to finish the game, and I'm elated that I could achieve that for my team," Dube said in a video posted by BCCI on social media.
"I thoroughly enjoyed my time at the crease. Initially, I struggled to grip the bat properly, but after a couple of deliveries, I found my rhythm and settled in. At that moment, I forgot about the chilly winter; I was completely absorbed in the game. The joyous atmosphere was palpable, with everyone expressing their happiness and commending my innings," the allrounder said.
Dube recorded his second T20 half-century as India finished with 159 for 4 in 17.3 overs, after restricting Afghanistan to 158 for 5 in 20 overs.
Apart from the match-winning innings, Dube bowled two overs for figures of 1 for 9.
WATCH:
"My captain, coach, and fellow players were genuinely pleased. Rohit said - keep playing this way, be positive in your game and we know you can score from anywhere and win us the game. He said keep playing like this. It was indeed a special moment when I took a wicket on the second ball of the over in a T20 game," the 30-year-old cricketer said.
The second game will be played in Indore on Sunday. Bengaluru will host the third T20 on January 17.
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