Cricket

With the deadline for announcing India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad approaching on May 1, the BCCI selectors face a daunting task of selecting the best possible team. While some players like Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, and Virat Kohli are likely to be automatic selections, there are several other contenders vying for the limited spots.One player who has emerged as a strong candidate is Shivam Dube. The left-handed batter has been in exceptional form for Chennai Super Kings in the ongoing IPL 2024. In eight matches, he has amassed 311 runs at a strike rate of 169.95, including three half-centuries.Dube's impressive performances have caught the attention of former India stars Suresh Raina and Mohammad Kaif, who have publicly advocated for his inclusion in the World Cup squad. Raina tweeted, "World Cup loading for Shivam Dube! @imAagarkar bhai select karo please," while Kaif wrote, "Shivam Dube is perfect to bat after the top order and before the big hitters. Should be India's No. 4 or No. 5 at World T20."However, some experts have raised concerns about the impact of the new "Impact Player" rule on the role of all-rounders. Under this rule, teams can substitute a player during the match, which could potentially negate the need for a traditional all-rounder like Dube."I completely agree it's debatable, little concern for sure. But we need to find a way on how to deal with it. In Impact Player rule you will find half all-rounders but not not a complete one," said former India pacer Zaheer Khan.Despite these concerns, Dube remains a strong contender for a place in the Indian team. His ability to bat in the middle order and provide power-hitting options makes him a valuable asset. Additionally, he can also contribute with his medium-pace bowling, although he has not had many opportunities to showcase his skills in this department.As the deadline for squad announcement draws near, the BCCI selectors will have to carefully consider all their options and make tough decisions. Shivam Dube's impressive form and versatility make him a strong candidate for a place in the Indian team, but the selectors will need to weigh his strengths and weaknesses against those of other contenders.

Shivam Dube, the Chennai Super Kings' batting all-rounder, has reached a significant milestone in his IPL career, surpassing the 1,000-run mark for the franchise. Dube's impressive performances have not only solidified his position in the CSK lineup but have also placed him as a strong contender for a spot in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 squad.Dube achieved this milestone in style, showcasing his batting prowess with a blistering 27-ball 66 against Lucknow Super Giants at the Chepauk stadium. His innings, consisting of three fours and seven towering sixes, came at an astonishing strike rate of 244.44, underlining his ability to score quickly and decisively.Since joining the Yellow franchise in 2022, Dube has been a vital cog in the CSK batting lineup, amassing 1,018 runs in 35 matches (33 innings) at an impressive average of 37.70 and a strike rate of 161.08. With eight half-centuries to his name, Dube's consistency and impact with the bat have been instrumental in CSK's success.Dube stands out among the elite group of batters who have amassed 1,000 runs for CSK. His striking prowess sets him apart, with a remarkable strike rate of over 150, a feat unmatched by any other player in this prestigious club. His closest rivals in this regard are the legendary MS Dhoni, with a strike rate of 138.98, and the seasoned campaigner Suresh Raina, with a strike rate of 138.91.Moreover, Dube's batting average further solidifies his status as one of the most impactful batters in this exclusive group. With a batting average bettered only by Michael Hussey (42.09), skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad (41.26), and the illustrious Dhoni (40.69), Dube's consistency at the crease is undeniable.Comparing his performances across franchises, Dube's numbers with CSK far exceed his statistics for Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Rajasthan Royals. While he managed 169 runs in 15 matches for RCB and 230 runs in nine matches for Rajasthan Royals, Dube's stint with CSK has seen him flourish and establish himself as a prolific run-scorer in the IPL.In the ongoing season, Dube has been in scintillating form, emerging as the sixth-highest run-getter with 311 runs in eight matches at an impressive average of 51.83 and a staggering strike rate of 169.94. With three half-centuries to his credit and a highest score of 66*, Dube's contributions have been pivotal in CSK's campaign.Dube's impressive performances have not only earned him a place in the CSK lineup but have also put him in contention for a spot in the Indian team for the ICC T20 World Cup 2024. With his ability to score quickly and consistently, Dube has the potential to be a valuable asset to the Indian team in the shortest format of the game.

Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) stalwart Suresh Raina has made a passionate plea to BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar to include star CSK all-rounder Shivam Dube in the upcoming T20 World Cup squad. Raina's appeal highlights Dube's significant contributions and the value he brings to the team.Dube has consistently showcased his exceptional skills and temperament, making him a formidable force on the field. His ability to excel under pressure, particularly in high-stakes matches, makes him an ideal candidate for the global tournament.In a recent match against the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), Dube played a blistering knock of 66 runs off just 27 balls, including three fours and seven massive sixes. His explosive batting propelled CSK to a competitive total of 210/4.Dube's impressive performance in the IPL has earned him widespread recognition. He has surpassed the 1000-run mark for CSK, demonstrating his consistency and ability to deliver under pressure.Raina's advocacy for Dube stems from his belief that the all-rounder possesses the necessary skills and experience to succeed on the international stage. Dube's versatility, both as a batsman and a bowler, makes him a valuable asset to any team.With the T20 World Cup approaching, Raina's plea to Agarkar underscores the importance of selecting players who can perform under pressure and contribute to the team's success. Dube's inclusion in the squad would provide India with a dynamic and explosive all-rounder who can make a significant impact on the tournament.

Shivam Dube, the enigmatic all-rounder from Mumbai, has emerged as a captivating dark horse candidate for India's T20 World Cup squad. His stellar performances for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 have not only propelled his team but also caught the attention of cricket pundits and former players.Dube's impact for CSK this season has been undeniable. As the side's star batter, he has amassed an impressive tally of 245 runs in seven matches, emerging as their highest run-scorer with a staggering strike rate of 157.05. With notable contributions including two half-centuries and a highest score of 66*, Dube's consistency and power-hitting prowess have been key factors in CSK's campaign.Former Australian cricketer and wicketkeeping maestro Adam Gilchrist recently endorsed Dube as his dark horse pick for India's T20 World Cup squad during an interview with Cricbuzz. Gilchrist praised Dube's irresistible form and highlighted his ability to take on both spin and pace bowling with confidence and finesse."Shivam Dube, I think his form is irresistible," Gilchrist remarked. "He's taken on spin bowling, which we've known and witnessed for a while. But he's taking on the quick bowlers. He seems to be confident in his shot selection all around the ground."Gilchrist further emphasized Dube's all-round talent, suggesting that his bowling skills could add depth to the Indian team if utilized effectively. Despite limited bowling opportunities, Gilchrist expressed optimism about Dube's potential impact in the T20 World Cup, urging the team management to consider maximizing his bowling contributions in the nets."If they get the message to him, to make sure he is at least bowling a lot in the nets...he is too irresistible as a talent, an all-round talent to not take to the World Cup," Gilchrist added.With the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee facing mounting pressure to assemble a formidable squad for the showpiece event, the inclusion of Shivam Dube as a dark horse candidate adds an intriguing dimension to the selection process. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball could prove invaluable in the high-pressure environment of the T20 World Cup.

Chennai Super Kings' Shivam Dube has emerged as a formidable force in the Indian Premier League (IPL), with his ability to control matches and strike fear into the hearts of opposing bowlers. Bowling coach Eric Simmons has hailed Dube's impact, noting that teams are "scared" to bowl spin against him.In CSK's recent 20-run victory over Mumbai Indians, Dube played a pivotal role with an unbeaten 66 off 38 balls. Notably, Mumbai employed seven bowling options but refrained from using their spinners after the eighth over, with Dube facing only one delivery from Shreyas Gopal."When he (Dube) comes on, they take the spinners off (and) they put the pacemen on. He has become more and more effective at that. But they didn't bowl spin again (in) the rest of the game because he was at the wicket," Simmons explained.Simmons emphasized Dube's ability to control matches, stating that his presence at the crease forces opponents to alter their bowling strategies. "They can't ball spin anymore. They don't want to. They're scared to. His ability to be effective against the pace bowling has become a massive asset for him," he added.Beyond his brute force, Simmons highlighted Dube's exceptional timing, which often goes unnoticed. "He hit a cover drive through extra cover. It was just the flow of the bat. It wasn't the brute force that he sometimes does it with; it just flew to the fence. I don't think people appreciate the timing with which he hits the ball. He's got some brute force, but his timing is outstanding," Simmons said.CSK's philosophy of providing players with "safety to try and fail" has played a crucial role in unlocking Dube's potential. "One of the most important things you can give your cricketers is something called safety. Psychological safety is the buzzword. Safety to fail, safety to try, safety to grow, be challenged all the time, but be trusted," Simmons explained.Simmons also praised Sri Lankan bowler Matheesha Pathirana, who claimed 4 for 28 in the match-winning spell for CSK. "The wickets is a bonus but his accuracy was really good, because sometimes you bowl accurately (but) not (get) the wickets," he said.

Shivam Dube's Power-Hitting Prowess Earns Praise from CSK Coach FlemingMumbai's Shivam Dube has emerged as a formidable force in the Indian Premier League (IPL), showcasing his exceptional power-hitting abilities. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) head coach Stephen Fleming has expressed his admiration for Dube's raw strength, suggesting that he deserves a spot in India's T20 World Cup squad."I love his power. I'm biased, aren't I? But I think when you have a bit different power like that, I would have him in the side," Fleming stated.Dube's impressive IPL performances this season have further solidified his credentials. In five matches, he has amassed 176 runs at a strike rate of 160.71, including two half-centuries."I haven't seen a guy hit it harder (and) consistently hit it harder. Some of the power he can generate both from spin and seam bowling is quite unique," Fleming remarked.Fleming emphasized the importance of India defining their game plan for the T20 World Cup before selecting players who fit those roles. He also lauded CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, comparing his batting style to that of MS Dhoni.Meanwhile, Afghanistan all-rounder Mohammad Nabi shared his insights on the challenges faced by off-spinners in the T20 format. Nabi, who has played only three overs in two matches for Mumbai Indians (MI) this season, attributed this to the aggressive mindset of batsmen against off-spin."Every batsman thinks that an off-spinner is there to be hit. As a batsman, even I think so when I face an off-spinner. I think there is a chance for two sixes. If the conditions are bad, not much would be in my hands. In that case, I attack the batsman, try to take the wicket. To survive, I try yorkers, wide yorkers, or bowl slow. I try my best to survive those six balls," Nabi explained.

Former India batter Manoj Tiwary has sparked a debate by advocating for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) all-rounder Shivam Dube's inclusion in the T20 World Cup squad over Mumbai Indians (MI) skipper Hardik Pandya. Tiwary's stance stems from Hardik's limited bowling contributions in the ongoing IPL season, where he has bowled only one over in the last three matches.Tiwary believes that Hardik's bowling credentials are crucial for his selection in the T20 World Cup squad. He pointed out that Hardik's economy rate of over 11 runs per over is a concern. "If he wants to play in the Indian T20 World Cup team as an all-rounder, he has to bowl," Tiwary emphasized.In contrast, Tiwary praised Dube's bowling abilities, highlighting his impressive performance in the T20I series against Afghanistan earlier this year. He described Dube as a "clever" bowler who can be an effective replacement for Hardik.Tiwary also criticized CSK's usage of Dube as an impact substitute, arguing that it has hindered his development as a bowler. He believes that if Dube is not selected for the T20 World Cup, CSK will bear some responsibility for his exclusion.Tiwary's comments have sparked a discussion about the balance of the Indian T20 World Cup squad. With Hardik's form and bowling contributions under scrutiny, Dube has emerged as a potential contender for a place in the team.

With the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 in full swing, the anticipation for the announcement of India's 2024 T20 World Cup squad is reaching fever pitch. The deadline for naming the squad is May 1, and the selection committee faces the daunting task of choosing the best players to represent India in the global tournament.India's quest for an ICC trophy since 2013 has been a long and arduous one, and the 2024 T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies presents a golden opportunity to break the drought. In recent years, there has been a growing clamor for the inclusion of young and fearless players in the T20 format.One player who has emerged as a strong contender for a spot in the squad is Riyan Parag. The Rajasthan Royals batsman has been in scintillating form in the IPL, scoring three half-centuries in his last four matches. In his last 15 T20 innings, Parag has amassed 771 runs at an astonishing average of 90 and a strike rate of 170.7."He is somebody that the selection committee has kept an eye on. All he needs to do is keep playing," said legendary commentator Sunil Gavaskar about Parag.Another player who has impressed the selectors is Shivam Dube. The all-rounder has showcased his exceptional striking ability against spinners, making him a valuable asset in the middle order. Venkatesh Prasad, a former India pacer, has advocated for Dube's inclusion in the squad, along with Rinku Singh and Suryakumar Yadav."Shivam Dube for his striking ability against spinners, Surya for being the best T20 international batter, and Rinku Singh for his exceptional finishing ability. It will be great if India finds a way to have these 3 in the 11 in the T20 WC," Prasad posted on social media.However, the wicket-keeper's spot remains a contentious issue. Prasad did not mention any specific names, leaving the door open for a number of players to stake their claim.The selection committee will have a tough decision to make when it comes to the batting unit. With Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma being automatic selections, the remaining spots will be fiercely contested. The likes of Hardik Pandya, Shreyas Iyer, and KL Rahul will all be hoping to prove their worth in the IPL and earn a place in the World Cup squad.

Shivam Dube's resurgence under the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) has been a testament to the franchise's ability to unlock the potential of underperforming players. After struggling to find his footing with the Royal Challengers Bangalore and Rajasthan Royals, Dube has flourished in CSK's batting lineup, becoming a key contributor to their success.CSK's clear role definition for Dube has been instrumental in his transformation. The team has given him the freedom to attack spin bowlers without hesitation, a strategy that has paid dividends. Last season, Dube smashed 57 sixes, including 35 against spin, the most by any Indian player in IPL history.Dube's improvement against the short ball has been another crucial factor in his success. Once a weakness, he has now become a confident player who can not only handle bouncers but also find boundaries off them. CSK batting coach Mike Hussey credits Dube's tireless work ethic for this improvement.CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad revealed that former India and CSK captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni has closely monitored Dube's progress against the short ball. Dhoni's guidance and the supportive environment at CSK have played a significant role in Dube's development.AB de Villiers, who played alongside Dube at RCB, believes that the CSK environment has allowed Dube to thrive. "He never really broke free in the RCB changing room," said de Villiers. "He talks about being free in CSK, and that is the magic recipe that MSD, Gaikwad, Fleming, and all the guys from the past have set up over there."Dube's resurgence is a testament to CSK's ability to identify and nurture talent. The franchise has a long history of getting the best out of players who have struggled elsewhere, including Shane Watson, Shardul Thakur, Robin Uthappa, Ajinkya Rahane, and Tushar Deshpande.