Shivam Dube’s exceptional performances in the ongoing IPL 2024 have propelled him into contention for a spot in India’s T20 World Cup squad. The Chennai Super Kings all-rounder has amassed 350 runs in nine innings at a remarkable strike rate of 172.41, showcasing his explosive batting prowess.
Dube’s impressive tally has garnered widespread support from cricket pundits and fans alike. Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra has been particularly vocal in his advocacy for Dube’s inclusion, stating that he should not only be selected for the 15-member squad but also feature in the playing XI.
“The way the kid is playing, he is absolutely scintillating and sensational,” Chopra said on his YouTube channel. “I am saying that you shouldn’t only send him but play him in the XI.”
Chopra emphasized Dube’s undeniable impact with the bat, stating that “no captain, team management, or selector can ignore him because if you ignore him, there is no player in India at the moment who hits better than him.”
Former India batter Mohammad Kaif has also praised Dube’s evolution as a cricketer in this year’s IPL. He highlighted the all-rounder’s remarkable improvement in overcoming his weaknesses.
“Every batter has a weakness. His weakness was against the bouncer or you could have trapped him by bowling wider lines. However, he has consistently become better,” Kaif said on Star Sports. “Now he is hitting pulls and sixes over extra cover. His game down the ground is fantastic.”
Kaif further praised Dube’s versatility and power-hitting prowess, noting his ability to dispatch deliveries to all parts of the ground with ease. “He hit low full tosses for sixes. It is very difficult to do that. Batters even get out to low full tosses at times but he has the power, uses the long handle, doesn’t move his feet much, and attacks the ball with full power and targets the sight screen,” Kaif elaborated.
“When India will go to play the World Cup, you will need such a player,” Kaif added.
Dube’s inclusion in the T20 World Cup squad would provide India with a much-needed power-hitter in the middle order. His ability to clear the boundary with ease and his versatility against both pace and spin would make him a valuable asset to the team.
