Shivam Dube’s redemption: From bits and pieces to World Cup contender?
Despite making his international debut in 2019, Shivam Dube has only donned the Indian jersey in 21 games. This limited exposure stems from the perception of him as a “bits and pieces” […]
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Jan 15, 2024 6:06 pm
Despite making his international debut in 2019, Shivam Dube has only donned the Indian jersey in 21 games. This limited exposure stems from the perception of him as a “bits and pieces” player. Early opportunities revealed inconsistency with the bat, with flashes of brilliance interspersed with prolonged stretches of quietness. His bowling, too, lacked the desired impact, leading to his exclusion from the national fold.
After being discarded altogether, Shivam Dube found redemption in two electrifying IPL seasons for Chennai Super Kings. His instrumental role in CSK‘s Championship run last year seemed to signal a turning point, a reinvention fueled by consistent brilliance. This resurgence earned him a recall for India’s experimental series against Ireland, a glimmer of hope for his international ambitions. However, recent developments such as his omission from the Australia and South Africa series cast doubt on the selectors’ long-term commitment to him.
Despite making his India debut in 2019, Shivam Dube has only donned the Indian jersey in 21 games. However, it seems like his time has come.
Now, in the ongoing series against Afghanistan, Dube finally got an opportunity. The opportunity, perhaps fueled by Hardik Pandya’s ongoing fitness struggles, has become a platform for Dube to showcase his undeniable talent. Two consecutive half-centuries, delivered with unwavering power and precision, were an emphatic statement of his capabilities. He’s not just filling a void; he’s making a case for himself, front and centre. Adding to his batting prowess, Dube has chipped in with valuable wickets in both games, showcasing a previously untapped dimension. This multifaceted display offers captain Rohit Sharma a compelling reason to consider Dube beyond a mere ‘backup’.
As a left-handed batsman, Shivam Dube brings a valuable element of contrast to the Indian lineup, a resource less readily available. His aggressive strokeplay, particularly against spin bowling, has been a revelation. He’s dismantled spin attacks with equal aplomb in the IPL and the ongoing series against Afghanistan, showcasing an innate confidence in dealing with the turning ball. This skillset holds special significance in light of the upcoming T20 World Cup, slated for spin-friendly pitches in the USA and West Indies. Dube’s ability to dominate against spinners could transform him into a key weapon in India’s arsenal, making him a potentially top-tier draft pick for the global tournament.
Management’s backing is necessary
While the Afghanistan series may not be the ultimate proving ground, Shivam Dube’s recent resurgence is undeniable. His batting has reached a new level, showcasing a potent blend of power and poise. While his bowling might not strike terror into the hearts of opponents, it offers a crucial element of versatility to his profile.
Instead of dismissing him after sporadic setbacks, the Indian management, spearheaded by skipper Sharma and coach Rahul Dravid, must consider a long-term investment in Dube. He presents a rare combination of hard-hitting batting and medium-pace bowling, a skillset not readily available in Indian cricket. Investing time and expertise in honing his all-round abilities could reap rich rewards in the long run.
