Shivam Dube’s inclusion in India’s T20 World Cup squad wasn’t without its share of nervous anticipation. The all-rounder recently opened up about the emotional rollercoaster he experienced leading up to the selection. “There were a lot of butterflies” and “sleepless nights,” Dube confessed in a recent interview with bcci.tv.
However, despite the anxiety, Dube reveals a hint of confidence came from discussions with the Indian team management. Last year, after a three-year absence from the T20I setup, Dube earned a recall on the back of a stellar IPL 2023 season with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). This impressive comeback was fueled by a transformation in his batting style, with Dube reinventing himself as a dangerous spin-hitter.
CSK, Rohit Sharma Provide the Spark: Trust and Freedom Breed Success
Dube credits his success and eventual selection to the guidance he received at CSK and from captain Rohit Sharma. “When I came into the CSK setup, Mahi [MS Dhoni] bhai and [Stephen] Fleming told me that you have to hit,” Dube revealed. This vote of confidence was coupled with valuable advice – “they’ve never said it has to be from the first ball,” acknowledging the risks of overly aggressive batting.
With this newfound freedom and a clear plan, Dube thrived. “That plan was, yes, I’m hitting [big] now, but how can I do it right through?” he explained. This approach involved careful observation and calculated aggression. “Mentally, I prepared myself to see what my approach should be if a bowler bowls a particular ball,” Dube elaborated. “It took some time for me to apply this, but I’m set now.”
Dube Embraces Comparisons to Yuvraj Singh, Strives for Consistency
The left-handed batsman’s powerful swing hitting has drawn comparisons to the legendary Yuvraj Singh. While acknowledging the resemblance, Dube remains humble. “It feels nice when people liken my batting to his,” he said.
His focus, however, is on developing the consistency that made Yuvraj such a force: “If I can also perform like him, it’ll be nice…From watching [Yuvraj] bat, I’ve learnt even if he wouldn’t hit off the first seven-eight balls, he covered it up towards the end. I’ve learnt that and prepared mentally for it too.”
With a newfound confidence and a well-defined role, Shivam Dube sets his sights on the T20 World Cup. The backing of the team management and the lessons learned at CSK have equipped him for the challenge. Dube’s inclusion adds another dimension to India’s batting lineup, and his ability to contribute with the ball makes him a valuable all-round option.
Whether he can replicate his IPL success on the international stage remains to be seen, but Dube’s determination and willingness to learn suggest he’s ready to make his mark on the biggest stage in T20 cricket.
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