Shivam Dube is slowly turning into a key player in India’s T20 setup. The all-rounder, who was part of the 2024 T20 World Cup-winning squad, once again showcased his talent in India’s first Asia Cup 2025 game against the UAE in Dubai.
The Chennai Super Kings star bowled just two overs but made a huge impact. He picked up three wickets while conceding only four runs, finishing with an economy rate of 2.00. His spell played a big role in bowling out the hosts for only 57 runs.
After the match, Dube opened up about his bond with Hardik Pandya, making it clear that Pandya is much more than just a teammate.
“Hardik is the kind of player from whom I keep learning. He is like my brother. His experience in the IPL and international cricket is huge. I want to learn as much as I can from him. I keep asking him questions, even about batting. I have never thought about comparisons. All I want, playing alongside him, is to learn and use that knowledge to improve myself,” Dube said.
Dube also praised India’s new coaching setup for backing him with the ball.
“The captain and coach told me beforehand that I would bowl. ‘We have confidence in you,’ they said. My bowling coach helped me with a lot of things. I had been preparing for a long time to be ready whenever the opportunity came. What happened today was the reward for that preparation,” he explained.
India will next face Pakistan in Dubai on Sunday, September 14. With the big clash ahead, Dube will look to carry forward his form and strengthen his place in the team.
For latest sports updates: Follow RevSportz