Suryakumar hails Dube after India’s narrow win over Netherlands

Suryakumar Yadav expressed satisfaction with India’s overall performance and praised Shivam Dube for his match-winning all-round display after India defeated the Netherlands national cricket team by 17 runs.

Speaking during the post-match presentation, Suryakumar said the team had planned to bat first and was pleased with the total despite challenging conditions.
“I think we wanted to bat first. We went on to score 190, and then coming out, there was a little bit of dew, a little bit challenging for the bowlers, but all in all, at the end of the day, very happy,” he said.

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He added that understanding responsibilities and building partnerships remained key.
“We might get a slow start, but it is very important for all the batters to understand what the responsibility is and how the wicket is playing in the middle overs. And then, later on, we have enough firepower with Hardik, Shivam, Rinku, Axar, or Washi, anyone to finish the game nicely,” he said.

Suryakumar also heaped praise on Dube, who scored a quickfire 66 off 31 balls and picked up two wickets to earn the Player of the Match award.
“He wanted to take that Man of the Match in the game earlier, but could not finish it. But today, I think the way he batted in the middle overs, took pressure off everyone, and taking it to 190 on this wicket, I think it was a very good score,” he said.
The Indian batter said that the team had performed well collectively but also acknowledged that there are areas where the team need to improve.

“I am very happy with the way things are moving on. The contribution is almost coming from every single batter.
That’s what I want, those small, small partnerships. Even in wins, there is something to learn,” he added.

Earlier, riding on a crucial partnership between Dube and Hardik Pandya, India posted 193 for five in 20 overs. Dube top-scored with 66 off 31 balls, while Tilak Varma made 31 and Suryakumar contributed 34. Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan were dismissed early.
In reply, the Netherlands finished at 176 for seven in their 20 overs. Bas de Leede scored 33, while Colin Ackermann made 23 as the pair added 43 runs to steady the innings. Zach Lion-Cachet (26) and Noah Croes (25 not out) added a late 47-run stand, but the target proved beyond reach as India secured a 17-run victory.