NEW DELHI: After a stellar 2024 season, India all-rounder
Shivam Dube
gained confidence and improved his talents in the Indian Premier League, which helped him secure a place in the
Men in Blue
squad.
After finishing the season with 396 runs, including three half-centuries at an explosive strike rate of 162.29, Dube was the second-highest run scorer for the Chennai Super Kings.
His impressive performance in the lucrative competition won him a coveted place in India's very competitive 15-man
T20 World Cup
team.
Throughout the tournament, the all-rounder remained a member of India's playing eleven and performed admirably when the chips were down, as evidenced by his critical 27-run innings in the final against South Africa.
Together with
Virat Kohli
(76), he forge a crucial 57-run partnership that helped India upset Proteas by six runs and win a second T20 World Cup. The team reached 176/6 in 20 overs. In eight innings, batting in the lower middle order, he scored 133 runs.
"The IPL is remarkable, both for players and for the growth of cricket in India. It provides a fantastic platform for young talent to showcase their skills alongside some of the best players in the world. Personally, playing in the IPL has been a significant learning experience, helping me improve my game and gain confidence," Dube told IANS.
While talking about IPL's contribution in Indian cricket's growth, he added, "Since the inception of the IPL, the growth of cricket in India has been phenomenal. It has brought in new fans, increased the popularity of the sport, and created numerous opportunities for players at all levels. The exposure and competitive environment of the IPL have elevated the standards of Indian cricket, contributing to the success we see on the international stage today."
Dube claimed that captain
Rohit Sharma
and coach
Rahul Dravid
's unwavering belief in his ability had enabled him to remain focused.
Big-hitter Dube scored 13 runs in eight matches, with a peak score of 34, but he did not have much of an effect with the bat in the T20 World Cup. But when it mattered most, he showed his value. His cameo of 27 from 16 balls in the final proved to be crucial to India's victory.
"The World Cup journey taught me a lot. The final was a crucial moment, and I am glad I could contribute to the team's efforts. Every match in the T20 World Cup was a learning experience, and the support from my teammates and fans kept me motivated. In the end, it's about giving your best for the team and making every opportunity count," Dube added.
Dube finished the tournament in the starting lineup despite his form issues. He credited this to coach Dravid and captain Rohit's steadfast encouragement, which has bolstered his desire to get better and help the team succeed in the future.
"It was both challenging and motivating. It was a test of my mental strength and perseverance. The unwavering support from our captain and coach was incredible. They constantly backed me, encouraging me to stay positive and keep working hard. Their faith in my abilities and their guidance helped me stay focused and believe in myself. This experience has made me stronger and more determined to improve and contribute to the team's success in the future," said Dube.
Following the T20 World Cup, Dube faced Zimbabwe in three T20I matches. In the one game he batted, he managed to score 26 runs. In the series, he also took home three scalps. India demonstrated their domination as the T20 champs by winning the series 4-1.
Dube bagged the Player of the Match award for his 12-ball 26 in the final match of the series.
Dube's next appearance will be on July 27 in the white-ball series against Sri Lanka.
English (US) ·