Indian cricketer Shivam Dube, known for his prowess as an all-rounder, believes that the legendary MS Dhoni is the best judge when it comes to deciding whether he should be given a chance to bowl during the Indian Premier League (IPL) matches.
During the 2023 IPL season, Dube showcased his batting skills while representing the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), accumulating an impressive 418 runs in 14 innings at a striking strike rate of 158.33. However, he primarily played as a specialist batsman and did not get many opportunities to bowl throughout the tournament.
In a recent interaction on the AakashVani show on JioCinema, Shivam Dube was questioned about whether the Impact Player rule had prevented him from bowling in the IPL and if he had ever approached MS Dhoni, CSK’s captain, to express his desire to bowl. Dube responded by explaining the dynamics within the CSK team:
“When it comes to the CSK team, we already had Moeen Ali as the sixth bowling option. I come in as the seventh option, so I would only be used if the situation absolutely demanded it. This is primarily due to the Impact Player rule. I am constantly working on improving my bowling so that I can contribute with one or two overs for the team.”
Dube went on to emphasize the trust he places in Dhoni’s judgment regarding when he should be given the ball. He expressed that approaching Dhoni with a request to bowl would be a sign of disrespect, as Dhoni possesses a deep understanding of the game. According to Dube, Dhoni always encourages him to focus on playing without stressing about bowling, and when he eventually began bowling, Dhoni acknowledged the improvement in his skills.
Dhoni, the seasoned captain, clarified to Dube that his decision regarding bowling was based on the match situation and the team’s needs. He consistently reassured Dube that his performance graph would ascend gradually.
Shivam Dube, when asked about his aspirations and goals, emphasized his burning desire to represent the Indian national cricket team and make a significant contribution to the country’s success. He disclosed:
“My primary goal has always been to play for the Indian team and make a meaningful contribution. It’s constantly on my mind that I have the potential to bring the World Cup home for my country.”
Dube, who is 30 years old, expressed his determination to regain his place in the full-strength Indian squad. He acknowledged that achieving this goal requires significant effort and dedication. However, he also conveyed optimism about the direction in which his career is progressing, feeling that he is inching closer to his dream of playing for India.
Dube’s recent participation in India’s T20Is during the tour of Ireland and his inclusion in the Indian contingent for the upcoming Asian Games indicate his commitment to performing at a high level and staking a claim for a spot in the Men in Blue’s squad for the forthcoming T20 World Cup.
In summary, Shivam Dube’s unwavering dedication to representing India on the international stage, coupled with his trust in MS Dhoni’s guidance, underscores his determination to continue improving as a cricketer and contribute significantly to his country’s cricketing success.
Tags: IPL, six6s, six6s cricket