There is always room for an interesting stat in the dynamic world of cricket. India haven’t suffered a defeat in their last 35 T20Is where all-rounder Shivam Dube featured in the lineup. The streak began back in December 2019 and remains prominent as India gears up to face Sri Lanka in the Super Four stage of the Asia Cup. However, one of the most noteworthy aspects which has especially stood out during this period is Dube’s adaptability and ability to step up across circumstances. The all-rounder initially began his career as a medium-pacer who could bat a bit. However, Dube’s enhanced focus on batting and an ability to whack sixes for fun earned fame and also put him on the radar of IPL franchises. The Mumbai cricketer drew comparisons to Yuvraj Singh, with many experts terming him as the next big thing in world cricket.Also Watch:
Unfortunately, the focus on big-hitting resulted in more attention towards batting as compared to delivering with the ball. This impacted Dube’s bowling in the IPL and international cricket with captains hesitant to fulfil his quota of overs. And the impact player rule also played a big role in that. The Mumbai cricketer’s reduced capabilities as a bowler were certainly evident in the fifth T20I against New Zealand back in February 2020, where he conceded 34 runs in an over. As lack of effectiveness seeped in, Dube’s concerns were further aggravated by injury issues while bowling. Absence of role clarity diminished the all-rounder’s confidence and Dube witnessed reduced demand for his services. However, the Mumbai cricketer’s fortunes took a turn for the better after being signed by CSK in 2022. “That was a very important turning point. Dube’s game and attitude completely changed after being signed by CSK. Working with the likes of Michael Hussey and MS Dhoni brought more calmness and assurance in his approach. Dube has benefited a lot and is confident about being backed through thick and thin,” said Dube’s childhood coach Satish Samant in an exclusive interaction with TimesofIndia.com. The Mumbai cricketer has developed into a player exceedingly lethal against spin during his CSK stint, rediscovering the explosiveness which made him so valuable. Dube’s heroics specifically caught the eye of Rohit Sharma for the T20 World Cup 2024, who intended to unleash the all-rounder against spinners on the slow wickets in USA and West Indies. The 32-year-old took on the role with confidence, making a mark in the final against South Africa, where he scored 27 off 16 balls. However, the ongoing Asia Cup has been a surprise for those used to Dube featuring as a batter, with the all-rounder making his mark in the bowling department as well. The 32-year-old especially stood out in India’s Super4s victory against Pakistan, killing the momentum of the opposition with his spell in the middle overs. Dube accounted for the dismissals of Saim Ayub and Sahibzada Farhan, conceding 33 runs. Pakistan scored just 38 runs between overs 10 and 17 with India captain Suryakumar Yadav terming Dube’s spell as the turning point in the match. “His approach as a bowler is far better and there has been significant transformation. Dube is more aggressive and has different weapons in his arsenal, like bowling slower ones, which he has worked on extensively. The team management expects a different role from him in the Asia Cup and he has answered the call with gusto.”“Working with Team India bowling coach Morne Morkel has specifically helped a lot. Dube is more focused while bowling, which is evident on his face. That was missing initially. Dube already had a decent pace and bounce considering his height. He is even more polished now,” said Samant. “If you analyse his spell against Pakistan, Dube understood the situation and bowled craftily with a fine blend of slower balls and wide yorkers. There was a focus on bowling in proper areas and stepping up when the occasion demands. A player will definitely give his best if he gets assurance from the team management. That is clearly the case here,” added Samant. Dube has been bending his back a lot more while bowling in the ongoing tournament which has come on the back of a strict fitness regime and training schedule. “He is extremely dedicated and regularly undergoes sessions with me where there is a focus on running and weight training. Dube underwent such sessions even before IPL 2025.”“He has become leaner, quicker and the fat percentage has converted into lean muscle mass along with enhanced endurance. Dube is very particular about the diet he follows,” said former Mumbai Ranji Trophy and current Indian table tennis team strength and conditioning coach Yogesh Kanchgar. A fine performance against Sri Lanka could well solidify Dube’s growing reputation even further.
