AHMEDABAD — India kept their perfect record intact this Wednesday, registering a 17-run win against the Netherlands at the Narendra Modi Stadium. The result officially sends India into the Super 8 stage of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 with a flawless 4–0 record, finishing clear winners of Group A.
Match Summary
India: 193/6 (20 overs)
Netherlands: 176/7 (20 overs)
Result: India won by 17 runs
Player of the Match: Shivam Dube
Dube and Varun Power India to Victory
The vibe in Ahmedabad was electric as local fans turned out in droves for the clash. India chose to bat first on a track that looked like a batter’s paradise, but things went wrong early. Abhishek Sharma’s tough run continued with a third straight duck, putting the middle order under immediate pressure.
Captain Suryakumar Yadav (34) and Tilak Varma (31) steadied the innings after the early setback, rebuilding patiently through the middle overs.
Everything changed when Shivam Dube took charge. In his finest international performance, Dube dismantled the Dutch attack, smashing 66 off just 31 balls. He cleared the ropes six times, mostly through long-on and mid-wicket, completely shifting momentum. With Hardik Pandya adding a quick 30* at the end, India scored 72 runs in the final six overs, lifting their total to a commanding 193.
For a detailed narrative of how the contest unfolded under the lights, you can also read India vs Netherlands T20: A Grind under the Ahmedabad Lights here:
Netherlands’ Spirited Response
To their credit, the Netherlands fought hard. Max O’Dowd and Vikramjit Singh launched positively in the Powerplay, keeping the required rate in check for much of the chase.
However, the introduction of Varun Chakravarthy turned the game decisively. The mystery spinner was outstanding, returning figures of 3/14 and dragging the momentum firmly back India’s way.
Dube capped off his all-round performance with 2/35, including the key wicket of Bas de Leede (33) just as he was looking dangerous. Despite late resistance from Noah Croes (25*) and Zach Lion-Cachet (26), India’s death bowling proved too disciplined. Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh executed their yorkers in the final overs, leaving the Netherlands stranded at 176/7.
Top Performers
Shivam Dube (India): 66 (31) & 2/35
Varun Chakravarthy (India): 3/14 (3 overs)
Bas de Leede (Netherlands): 33 (23)
Logan van Beek (Netherlands): 3/56 (4 overs)
Aryan Dutt (Netherlands): 2/19 (4 overs)
Group A Implications
India leave Ahmedabad unbeaten and full of confidence heading into the Super 8s, with their middle order finally firing at the right time. They now move into a tough group alongside England, New Zealand, and Pakistan.
While the Netherlands are officially out, they exit the tournament with heads held high after pushing the world’s top-ranked side deep into the contest.
Comments (42)
Great analysis! I think the toss will be crucial. If India bats first and puts up 300+, it's game over for NZ.
Don't underestimate the Black Caps! We've won in India before. Williamson's leadership will make the difference.