On Monday, the formidable six-hitter Shivam Dube expressed that his knack for playing a diverse range of strokes against spinners is a "god's gift." However, he acknowledged that overcoming challenges posed by express pace and bounce demands significant hard work.
Dube showcased his prowess as a potent hitter against spinners in the first two T20 Internationals against Afghanistan, making a strong spin attack appear ordinary with his power-packed innings. Reflecting on his performance, Dube credited his expansive range of shots to a natural gift while also acknowledging the effort he has invested in refining his game.
During the second T20I, where he played an unbeaten inning of 63 off 32 balls, Dube dominated with four towering sixes and five fours, contributing significantly to India's successful chase of a target of 173.
While Dube has been known for his proficiency against spinners, he admitted facing challenges against express pace and short deliveries. He emphasized the higher standard of fast bowlers in the IPL compared to domestic cricket and shared that he has worked extensively, not only on his technique but also on developing the right mindset to tackle such deliveries.
Having faced a tough start for India's white-ball team more than four years ago, Dube credited his improvement to the support and encouragement he received from the Chennai Super Kings and MS Dhoni. He highlighted the role of Stephen Fleming and Mike Hussey in instilling confidence in him.
Speaking about his role as a finisher, Dube mentioned emulating MS Dhoni's approach of staying calm and composed while focusing on one ball at a time. Despite the temptation to think about the forthcoming T20 World Cup, he emphasized the importance of staying grounded and concentrating on skill improvement in the present.
In essence, Shivam Dube's journey reflects a combination of natural talent, hard work, and the mentorship he received from seasoned players and franchises, showcasing his commitment to continuous improvement in the dynamic world of cricket.
(With Agency Inputs)
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