Cricket

Shivam Dube's journey to the Indian T20 World Cup squad was marked by anticipation and sleepless nights. After a three-year absence, Dube earned a recall in August 2023, showcasing his transformed role as a spin-hitter for Chennai Super Kings.Dube's IPL success translated into international brilliance in January 2024. He smashed consecutive half-centuries against Afghanistan, earning the Player of the Series award. Captain Rohit Sharma's encouragement to bowl and bat freely boosted his confidence.At IPL 2024, Dube has continued his six-hitting prowess, ranking third in the tournament. He credits his batting transformation to his move to CSK, where MS Dhoni and Stephen Fleming encouraged him to focus on hitting without taking undue risks.Dube's batting style has drawn comparisons to Yuvraj Singh, a legend known for his clean hitting. Dube acknowledges the resemblance and aspires to develop the same consistency. He has learned from Yuvraj's ability to cover up slow starts with explosive finishes.Dube's inclusion in the T20 World Cup squad is a testament to his hard work and adaptability. His ability to hit big against spinners and his improved bowling skills make him a valuable asset to the Indian team.

Shivam Dube's transformation in the Indian Premier League (IPL) has been remarkable. After struggling in his first three seasons, he has become an indispensable part of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) since joining the franchise in 2022.Dube's turnaround is largely due to the clear role he has been given by CSK. The team has entrusted him with the responsibility of taking on spinners during the middle overs, a task he has excelled at with his long reach and power.However, teams quickly realized Dube's weakness against fast bowlers and preferred to tie him down with short-pitched deliveries. This posed a challenge for Dube, especially with the introduction of the two-bouncer rule this season.But the Mumbai all-rounder has shown that he is up to the task. In the first eight games of IPL 2023, Dube has amassed 311 runs, including three half-centuries, at a strike rate of 169. Against Mumbai Indians and Lucknow Super Giants, he scored 66 runs, with all his boundaries coming off medium-pacers.Dube's improved ability to handle short-pitched deliveries has been praised by CSK batting coach Micheal Hussey. "He has given it back to the bowlers, forcing them to try something new," Hussey said.Dube's heroics last year earned him a recall to the Indian squad after a three-year gap. By addressing his weakness this year, he has strengthened his chances of making the T20 World Cup squad.