Shivam Dube had played for Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Rajasthan Royals in the IPL previously, but it is at Chennai Super Kings where the 30-year-old has realised his true potential as a batter.
Though an all-rounder, Dube has been claiming headlines for his exploits with the bat in the last couple of years. His big-hitting and brisk-scoring prowess makes him a front-runner to clinch a place in the India squad for the T20 World Cup later this year.
On Tuesday in Chennai, Dube blasted 51 off 23 balls to win the Man of the Match award in the Super Kings’ 63-run win over Gujarat Titans.
Speaking of his comfort level as a player in the Super Kings colours, the left-handed Dube said: “This franchise is something different from all others. They are giving me the freedom. They want me to do better and I also want to win some matches.”
A clean hitter of the ball, Dube had some weakness against the short ball, but not any more. “I have worked in that way. It is helping me. I know they will bowl me some short balls and I’m ready
for that.”
Besides Dube, Rachin Ravindra, opening the innings, also played a powerful knock for the Super Kings. His 46 off just 20 balls gave the Super Kings a blockbuster start.
“Like I said before, it’s more about showing intent... The wickets in India feel pretty quick, so you can react to it,” the New Zealand all-rounder said.
