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Xtra Time Web Desk: Shivam Dube showcased an outstanding all-round performance (60 off 40 & 2-0-9-1), guiding India to a convincing 6-wicket victory over Afghanistan in the first T20I in Mohali on Thursday. Opting to bowl first, India limited Afghanistan to 158/5 in 20 overs. The hosts chased the target losing just 4 wickets with 15 balls to spare.

Chasing 159, India faced an early setback as captain Rohit Sharma was run out for a duck due to miscommunication with Shubman Gill. However, Shubman's brisk start (23 off 12) and contributions from Tilak Varma (26) and Jitesh Sharma (31) steadied the ship. Dube played a pivotal role, smashing an unbeaten 60* off 40 balls, featuring 5 fours and 2 sixes, ensuring India reached the target with 15 balls to spare. Rinku Singh, the designated finisher, remained unbeaten on 16.

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Earlier, Afghanistan had a challenging start as openers Rahamanullah Gurbaz and skipper Ibrahim Zadran struggled in the powerplay. However, a crucial 68-run partnership between Mohammad Nabi (42 off 27) and Azmatullah Omarzai (29 off 22) revived Afghanistan's innings. Despite India dominating the powerplay, the partnership helped Afghanistan post a competitive total.

Dube's stellar performance not only highlighted his batting prowess but also underlined his value as a reliable all-rounder for India, making a strong case for future selections.

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