Queensland [Australia]: India all-rounder Shivam Dube credited his recent improvement with the ball to head coach Gautam Gambhir, bowling coach Morne Morkel, and captain Suryakumar Yadav.
With premier all-rounder Hardik Pandya sidelined due to a left quadriceps strain, Dube has stepped up to fill the void in the T20I setup. During India’s unbeaten run in the Asia Cup, he bowled crucial overs in the middle stages and provided timely breakthroughs.
In the fourth T20I against Australia on Thursday, Dube played a pivotal role with the ball, claiming two vital wickets. Chasing 168, Australia’s Tim David hammered a massive six off Dube’s second ball of the 12th over. However, Dube struck back immediately — delivering a 122 kph short ball that tempted David into an early pull shot, only for Suryakumar Yadav to pouch it safely at extra cover. David departed for 14 (9).
Earlier, Dube had dismissed Australia’s captain Mitchell Marsh, deceiving him with a slower delivery that found Arshdeep Singh in the deep. Marsh’s exit for 30 (24) triggered a collapse that saw Australia bowled out for 119 in 18.2 overs, handing India a 48-run victory.
Reflecting on the dismissal of David, Dube said,
“When he hit me for a six, I just thought it was a good shot. I told myself to focus on the next ball.”
Dube also detailed how Gambhir, Morkel, and Suryakumar have helped him refine his bowling approach.
“When I got the chance, I knew I wanted to bowl. Morne, Gauti bhai, and Surya made a really good plan for me — they told me what line and length to stick to,” Dube said.
“Gauti bhai backed me a lot. He told me to bowl bindas (fearlessly) and express myself. Morne helped me with small technical adjustments that have made a big difference.”
Before shining with the ball (2/20 in 2 overs), Dube made a handy contribution with the bat, scoring 22 off 18 balls after being promoted to No. 3 — helping India post a competitive 167/8.
Gradually evolving into a dependable seam-bowling all-rounder, Dube is shaping up as a potential asset for overseas conditions, including South Africa, host of the 2027 World Cup.
Asked about his long-term goals, Dube remained focused on the immediate future:
“2027 is still far away. Right now, my focus is only on the T20 World Cup next year, as we look to defend our title at home.”
