Shivam Dube’s Power-Hitting Prowess Earns Praise from CSK Coach Fleming
Mumbai’s Shivam Dube has emerged as a formidable force in the Indian Premier League (IPL), showcasing his exceptional power-hitting abilities. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) head coach Stephen Fleming has expressed his admiration for Dube’s raw strength, suggesting that he deserves a spot in India’s T20 World Cup squad.
“I love his power. I’m biased, aren’t I? But I think when you have a bit different power like that, I would have him in the side,” Fleming stated.
Dube’s impressive IPL performances this season have further solidified his credentials. In five matches, he has amassed 176 runs at a strike rate of 160.71, including two half-centuries.
“I haven’t seen a guy hit it harder (and) consistently hit it harder. Some of the power he can generate both from spin and seam bowling is quite unique,” Fleming remarked.
Fleming emphasized the importance of India defining their game plan for the T20 World Cup before selecting players who fit those roles. He also lauded CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, comparing his batting style to that of MS Dhoni.
Meanwhile, Afghanistan all-rounder Mohammad Nabi shared his insights on the challenges faced by off-spinners in the T20 format. Nabi, who has played only three overs in two matches for Mumbai Indians (MI) this season, attributed this to the aggressive mindset of batsmen against off-spin.
“Every batsman thinks that an off-spinner is there to be hit. As a batsman, even I think so when I face an off-spinner. I think there is a chance for two sixes. If the conditions are bad, not much would be in my hands. In that case, I attack the batsman, try to take the wicket. To survive, I try yorkers, wide yorkers, or bowl slow. I try my best to survive those six balls,” Nabi explained.
