Shivam Dube is fast cementing his reputation as one of India’s most dangerous power-hitters in the ongoing ICC Men's T20 World Cup. After handy contributions on challenging surfaces against Namibia and Pakistan, the all-rounder delivered a commanding performance against the Netherlands on Wednesday.
Initially tested by off-spinner Aryan Dutt, Dube managed just six runs off his first 11 deliveries. But once he found his rhythm, there was no stopping him. The left-hander shifted gears spectacularly, smashing a 31-ball 66 studded with six towering sixes to power India to a match-winning total.
Playing in only his second T20 World Cup, Dube has long been known for his brute force against spin. Now, he appears equally assured against pace. Against the Netherlands, he read Logan van Beek’s variations early and launched him for three massive sixes, underlining his growing confidence against fast bowlers.
A noticeable improvement in handling the short ball has added a new dimension to his game — a transformation he credits to his stint with Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League.
“Yes, obviously when you play dot balls in T20 cricket, there is pressure. But as a batsman, I know that even if I am 2 off 10 balls, two sixes in the next few deliveries can change everything,” Dube said after receiving the Player of the Match award.
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He stressed the importance of partnerships, especially after losing wickets on a tricky surface. “If we lose a wicket, we have to build again. Even if a few balls are quiet, it’s fine — it can be covered later.”
Dube believes regular exposure to pressure situations has sharpened his decision-making. “When you get opportunities in such scenarios, you learn. I’ve become smarter. I understand what bowlers might try short balls, slower deliveries — and I’ve worked very hard on those areas.”
Speaking about his maiden T20 World Cup half-century, Dube said he sensed it was his moment. “I felt today was my day. I wanted to stay till the end, back my strengths, and push myself. That’s why I’m known as a power-hitter.”
Reflecting on his evolution at CSK, he admitted struggling initially against the short ball. “When I joined CSK, I was struggling. I scored some runs, but I knew I had to come back stronger the next season. I worked really hard in the off-season, especially on the short ball.”
It is not just his batting that has grown. His bowling has also improved significantly, a fact highlighted when India captain Suryakumar Yadav entrusted him, instead of Jasprit Bumrah, with defending 28 runs in the final over — a task Dube executed successfully.
