Intro
Shivam Dube’s evolved skillset and awareness make him indispensable in India’s T20 setup
Thiruvananthapuram
When Shivam Dube returned to the Indian side nearly three years ago, his value was clearly defined. He was a middle-overs spin basher, a role he perfected with Chennai Super Kings during their IPL triumph in 2023. Today, however, Dube has outgrown that limited tag and transformed himself into a far more complete and reliable all-rounder for India.
Over the past 12 months, Dube’s biggest upgrade has been his game awareness and ability to adapt under pressure. That evolution was evident against New Zealand on Wednesday when the visitors dared to bowl spin to him. Dube responded with authority, registering the third-fastest T20I fifty by an Indian and almost dragging India home single-handedly before an unfortunate run-out halted his charge.
What stands out since 2025 is how Dube has neutralised traditional match-ups. Earlier, captains would quickly turn to pace once he walked in. That strategy has lost its edge. Since 2025, Dube has struck at 193.54 against spin and an equally menacing 167.59 against pace. While his average against seamers has dipped, his boundary-hitting frequency — one every 3.85 balls — aligns perfectly with India’s aggressive T20 blueprint.
Dube himself acknowledges the importance of constant improvement, stressing the need to be “a little better, a little smarter” each game. His role is no longer restricted to targeting spinners; fast bowlers are firmly in his sights too.
Equally significant is his growing contribution with the ball. Since 2025, Dube has bowled regularly, picking up 20 wickets in 21 innings. His ability to chip in with overs has allowed India to better manage key bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya and Varun Chakravarthy.
While his numbers in India’s victorious 2024 T20 World Cup campaign may not jump off the page, Dube’s impact — particularly his vital cameo in the final — told a deeper story. As India eye the unprecedented feat of defending their T20 World Cup crown, an upskilled Shivam Dube looks set to be a decisive piece in that puzzle.