Aakash Chopra praised Shivam Dube for his standout dual-role success in the first T20I, India versus Afghanistan. If Dube shows his skills in the IPL 2024, Chopra believes he could earn a spot on India’s T20 World Cup team.
Dube showed his skill in Mohali on Thursday, January 11th. He held Afghanistan to a total of 158/5 by giving just 9 runs in two overs. But he didn’t stop there. The power-packed leftie scored a smashing undefeated 60 from 40 balls. India won the match with 15 balls and 6 wickets to spare, thanks to Dube’s splendid innings.
Chopra lauded Dube’s show in a YouTube video. He hinted that if Dube plays well for the Chennai Super Kings in the forthcoming IPL season, it might place him as a contender for India’s T20 World Cup team. He said:
“Shivam Ati Sundaram. He picked up a wicket, bowled only two overs, and then made 60 runs off 40 balls as well with a strike rate of 150. Shivam Dube has staked a claim once again. This is the World Cup year and he bats at a good position for CSK in the IPL and does very well.”
Aakash Chopra
The Mumbai all-rounder made the most of his opportunity despite receiving rather unjust treatment, according to the former India opener, who explained:
“I was feeling that Dube was not being treated properly. We had spoken earlier that you made him sit out in the five matches against Australia and dropped him against South Africa, but now when he got a chance, he has not only grabbed it but made the most of it.”
Aakash Chopra
In the T20I series with Australia following the 2023 ODI World Cup, Dube was there on India’s team but did not see play. He got skipped over for the next tour in South Africa. Now, however, he’s back for the current series against Afghanistan.
“He played with great maturity” – Aakash Chopra praises Shivam Dube for finishing the game
Aakash Chopra gave a thumbs up to Shivam Dube. He admired him for not losing wickets and ending the game successfully, explaining:
“He had already picked up a wicket with the ball but the way he batted, he played with great maturity. He finished the match. I think that’s an important one when you close out the match.”
Aakash Chopra
In addition, the seam-bowling all-rounder has made his case as a strong backup to Hardik Pandya, according to the former cricket player turned analyst.
“He said that he should be given chances as he can bowl as well. He said that if Hardik Pandya is unfit or unavailable for any reason, he can do the job. Player of the Match performance was Shivam Dube. The standout performer was Shivam Dube.”
Aakash Chopra
At 28/2, Dube came out to bat as India was having trouble. He formed vital alliances with Jitesh Sharma, Rinku Singh, and Tilak Varma to help the hosts cross the finish line, and he was rightfully named Player of the Match.