India completed a flawless group stage campaign in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup with a convincing win over the Netherlands to enter the Super 8 stage with four victories in four matches. An all-round performance led by Shivam Dube’s half-century and Varun Chakaravarthy’s three-wicket haul ensured India maintained their unbeaten run and carried strong momentum into the next phase.
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Dube’s fifty anchors India to 193
Batting first, India recovered from an early setback to post a formidable total, thanks largely to Shivam Dube’s composed knock. The left-hander scored a fluent 63, blending calculated aggression with smart strike rotation to stabilise the innings and accelerate through the middle overs. He found good support from the middle order as India pushed to 193/6 in 20 overs, putting the Netherlands under immediate scoreboard pressure.
Dube’s innings held particular importance as he absorbed early pressure and ensured India did not lose control after the powerplay. His ability to counter spin and target the shorter boundary allowed India to finish strongly and put the game out of the Netherlands’ comfort zone.
Varun’s 3-fer dismantles Netherlands chase
In response, the Netherlands never managed to build momentum against India’s disciplined bowling attack. Varun Chakaravarthy led the charge with an outstanding spell, finishing with 3 for 14 and breaking the backbone of the Dutch batting lineup.
He struck at crucial intervals, removing set batters and ensuring the required run rate kept climbing. The pace attack complemented him well by maintaining tight lines, and the Netherlands eventually 17 runs short of the target, sealing another comprehensive win for India.
Perfect road to Super 8s for India
India’s qualification for the Super 8 stage was built on a series of commanding performances throughout the group phase. They began with a comfortable victory over the USA, where the bowlers set the tone for the campaign. The defining moment came against Pakistan, where India registered their biggest-ever win over their rivals in T20 World Cup history, underlining their title credentials.
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The win over the Netherlands confirmed India’s status as one of the most consistent teams in the tournament. Winning all four matches not only secured qualification but also ensured a strong net run rate and psychological advantage heading into the next round.
Super 8 challenge awaits tougher tests
With qualification secured, India now move into the Super 8 stage, where the level of competition rises significantly. They are set to face other top teams who have advanced from the remaining groups, including major contenders such as South Africa, Zimbabwe & West Indies.
These matches will play a crucial role in determining the semi-finalists, and India will look to carry forward their unbeaten momentum. With their batting firing, bowling unit delivering consistently and multiple players contributing, India enter the Super 8 stage as one of the strongest favourites to lift the trophy.
