New Delhi: Former India captain and batting great Sunil Gavaskar has lavished praise on Shivam Dube for seizing his moment under pressure during the fourth T20 International against New Zealand, describing the all-rounder as a cricketer who “grabbed the opportunity” when it mattered most.
Gavaskar’s comments came after India’s dramatic but unsuccessful chase of a stiff 216-run target, where Dube’s explosive knock briefly swung momentum back in India’s favour. The left-handed batter walked in with India struggling at 63 for four, soon after the dismissal of Hardik Pandya, with the asking rate climbing rapidly and wickets falling at regular intervals.
What followed was a stunning counterattack. Dube announced his intent immediately, dispatching the very first ball he faced for a massive six over cow corner — a shot that, according to Gavaskar, sailed deep into the second tier of the stands. From there, the Mumbai all-rounder unleashed a breathtaking assault on the New Zealand bowlers, smashing 65 runs off just 23 deliveries, including three boundaries and seven towering sixes.
Although Dube’s innings was cut short by a run-out a moment that effectively ended India’s hopes as New Zealand went on to secure a consolation victory his performance drew widespread admiration. Gavaskar noted that opportunities for Dube are often limited due to India’s settled and deep batting line-up.
Speaking to Star Sports, Gavaskar said Dube made full use of the rare chance to bat earlier than usual. He pointed out that players batting at six or seven for a strong Indian side typically get only a handful of overs, but early wickets forced Dube into action sooner. According to Gavaskar, the confidence and intent Dube showed from the very first ball set the tone for his innings.
Dube’s half-century came in just 15 balls, making it the third-fastest fifty by an Indian in T20 internationals. Only Yuvraj Singh’s 12-ball effort and Abhishek Sharma’s 14-ball fifty rank ahead of him. Gavaskar described the achievement as remarkable, placing Dube in elite company and highlighting his natural power, timing, and ability to clear the ropes with ease.
Reflecting further, Gavaskar said an early big hit can significantly boost a batter’s confidence, and Dube clearly understands his strengths. With his powerful swing and clean striking, Gavaskar noted, Dube knows that even slight contact can send the ball into the crowd.
Beyond his batting, Gavaskar also underlined Dube’s all-round value to the team. He said the ability to contribute a couple of overs with the ball adds another dimension to Dube’s game, making him more than just a lower-order hitter.
Concluding his assessment, Gavaskar suggested that this innings could reshape how Dube views his role in the team. Having batted under pressure and built an innings, Dube may no longer see himself purely as a finisher, but as someone capable of both constructing and closing out games a quality that, Gavaskar believes, makes him a genuinely valuable asset for India in high-pressure situations.