Cricket

Shivam Dube's remarkable transformation in handling short balls has been a key factor in Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) impressive start to the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 season. The burly Mumbai all-rounder, who was once vulnerable to the short-ball barrage, has now become a formidable force against it.Dube's newfound confidence and improved technique were evident in CSK's 63-run victory over Gujarat Titans on Tuesday. He smashed five sixes in his 23-ball 51, showcasing his ability to clear the boundary with ease. This performance followed his unbeaten 34 in the opening win against Royal Challengers Bangalore, where he also displayed his improved short-ball handling.The credit for Dube's transformation goes in part to Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the legendary former India captain and current CSK skipper. Dhoni has worked closely with Dube, providing him with guidance and support. The CSK management has also given Dube the freedom to express himself, allowing him to play his natural game."Just confidence. When he came here the management worked with him personally, Mahi bhai worked with him personally. He knows what role he is playing and which bowler to take on. A big plus for us," said Gaikwad, praising Dube's impact.Dube himself acknowledged the support he has received from CSK. "This franchise (CSK) is something different from all others. They are giving me the freedom. They want me to do better and I also want to win some matches," he said after winning the 'Player of the Match' award.Dube's improved short-ball handling has not only made him a more dangerous batsman but has also given CSK a valuable weapon in their bowling attack. With the new rule allowing two bouncers per over, Dube can now use his height and pace to trouble batsmen with short-pitched deliveries.For CSK, Dube's transformation is a testament to the team's commitment to player development. The franchise has a history of nurturing young talent and helping them reach their full potential. Dube's success is a shining example of this philosophy.

The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) unleashed a batting onslaught to post a formidable total of 206/6 against the Gujarat Titans (GT) in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season at the MA Chidambaram Stadium.CSK's innings got off to a blistering start, with Rachin Ravindra continuing his impressive form in the powerplay. The young New Zealand opener amassed 46 off just 20 deliveries, including six fours and three maximums. Skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad provided solid support, helping CSK reach 69/1 before Ravindra's dismissal.Ajinkya Rahane failed to make an impact, but Shivam Dube wasted no time in taking the attack to GT. Dube sent the ball soaring into the stands on two consecutive deliveries, setting the tone for a middle-order onslaught. Gaikwad (46) fell just short of his half-century, but Daryl Mitchell picked up the pace with a quickfire 50 off 22 deliveries.GT skipper Shubman Gill brought Rashid Khan back into the attack, but the Afghanistan spinner could only remove Dube on the second ball of the 19th over. Sameer Rizvi made an immediate impact, smashing two sixes in his first over in the IPL. Rizvi's cameo helped CSK reach a massive total of 206/6.GT now faces a daunting task in chasing down the target at Chepauk, where CSK has a formidable record. The Titans will need to pull off a record chase to secure victory.

Shivam Dube Credits MS Dhoni for His Finishing Prowess, Guides CSK to Thrilling IPL Opener VictoryShivam Dube, the dynamic all-rounder for Chennai Super Kings (CSK), has attributed his ability to finish crucial games to the invaluable guidance of his legendary teammate, MS Dhoni. Dhoni, renowned as one of the greatest finishers in cricket history, has served as a mentor for Dube, who played a pivotal role in CSK's thrilling six-wicket victory over Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the IPL opener on Friday.Reflecting on his match-winning performance, Dube expressed his elation at contributing to CSK's triumph. "Finishing the game for Chennai is always something that amazes me. That's what I have learnt from Mahi bhai, and I try to do it every game," he stated.Dube's crucial 34-run cameo, coupled with an unbeaten 66-run partnership with Ravindra Jadeja, guided CSK to chase down RCB's target of 174 runs with confidence and composure. Acknowledging his partnership with CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, Dube praised Gaikwad's composed approach to the chase, highlighting the calming presence he brought to the team. "It was nice to have a partnership with Rutu. Obviously, he's done this for a long period for Chennai," he noted.Dube also commended the unwavering support from the Chepauk crowd, describing it as "incredible" and among the loudest he has ever experienced. "It was crazy; the crowd was incredible, one of the loudest I have ever experienced. It was unbelievable," he added.Looking ahead, CSK will face last season's runner-up, Gujarat Titans, in their next game, with Dube aiming to continue his impactful performances and keep the Chepauk crowd entertained with more victories.

Mumbai's Ranji Trophy quarter-final aspirations have been dealt a significant blow with the news that key players Shreyas Iyer and Shivam Dube will miss the crucial knockout match due to injuries. Iyer, who has been battling back spasms, will be sidelined, while Dube is out with a side strain.Iyer's absence is particularly disappointing, given his impressive form in recent months. The talented batsman had a strong showing in the Asia Cup and the ODI World Cup, amassing 530 runs in the latter tournament with an impressive average of 66.25. He also made a solid start to the Ranji Trophy season, scoring 91 runs in his only appearance.Dube, on the other hand, has been a revelation for Mumbai this season, striking two centuries and two half-centuries in his six Ranji innings. His aggressive batting style has been a major factor in Mumbai's success, and his absence will be keenly felt.The injuries to Iyer and Dube have left Mumbai with a depleted squad for the quarter-final against Baroda, starting on February 23. The team will be led by Ajinkya Rahane, with Prithvi Shaw, Shardul Thakur, and Dhawal Kulkarni as the other experienced players in the side.However, the absence of Iyer and Dube will undoubtedly weaken Mumbai's chances of progressing to the semi-finals. The team will need to find a way to compensate for the loss of their two key players if they are to maintain their title challenge.