‘Credit goes to the CSK team and Mahi bhai’: Shivam Dube Hails CSK Skipper Behind His Success In Afghanistan Series

Indian all-rounder Shivam Dube showcased a stellar performance on Sunday in the second T20I against Afghanistan, leaving a lasting impact. Batting at no.4, Dube played an unbeaten innings of 63 off just 32 balls as India successfully chased down Afghanistan's total of 172 with 26 balls to spare.

His remarkable form in the series was evident from the first match in Mohali, where he not only picked up two wickets in as many overs but also anchored the innings with an unbeaten 60, steering India to victory.

In the recent game, Dube once again remained unbeaten, taking charge of the run-chase after the early dismissals of Rohit Sharma (0) and Virat Kohli (29). Partnering with young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal (64), Dube established a crucial 92-run partnership, effectively sealing the match for India.

Dube's career has been on a remarkable trajectory since he joined the Chennai Super Kings ( CSK ) during the 2022 Indian Premier League (IPL) auction. While he had a decent outing in that season, scoring 289 runs in 11 games, Dube had a standout performance in 2023 with the Super Kings. He surpassed the 400-run mark for the first time in the IPL, contributing 418 runs in 16 matches and playing a pivotal role in the team's record-equalling fifth title win.

Following his match-winning innings in the second T20I, Dube, in a conversation with broadcaster JioCinema, emphasized the significant role played by CSK in reviving his career. Dube credited senior members of the Super Kings, including captain MS Dhoni and coach Stephen Fleming , for boosting his confidence.

"This credit goes to the CSK team and Mahi bhai. I always had the game, but what CSK does is take out that game from a player. So, they have given me that confidence. They told me that I could score runs in IPL and that they believed in me. The likes of Hussey and Fleming said they had faith in me and that I could do what they wanted," Dube said.

"When I was with CSK, he (MS Dhoni) told me that I had the capability to bat well. But he told me to be smart. So, I focused on my limitations and what I could do well."

With consistent performances, Dube is making a strong case for his inclusion in the squad for the T20 World Cup scheduled in June later this year.