Shivam Dube, an Indian all-rounder, has bowled just three overs for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the last three IPL seasons, owing mostly to the Impact Player rule. However, he was named Impact Player of the Match for his three-wicket haul against the UAE in the Asia Cup 2025 on September 10.
Dube bowled only one over during India’s successful 2024 T20 World Cup campaign in the West Indies and the United States. However, it is a credit to his tenacity that he has not been discouraged by limited opportunities and has allowed his secondary skill to take a back seat.
The support of Indian bowling coach Morne Morkel has also played an important influence in the development of the medium pacer.
“Definitely, today’s start was very important. I have always prepared for four overs as an all-rounder. Whenever I get an opportunity to bowl three-four overs, I am ready for it,” Dube said as quoted by The Hindu.
“When I came for the England series (in January), he (Morkel) told me a few things. He suggested that I bowl more outside (off-stump) and told me a couple of things related to the slower ball. He also said a few things about my run-up. Because of those two-three things, my bowling is getting better. My pace is also improving,” he added.
Dube’s presence in the middle order bolsters India’s batting depth while also providing six viable bowling options, with Axar Patel coming in at No. 8. This combination helps India plug the gap left by Ravindra Jadeja. For Dube to continue justifying his spot, his primary responsibility remains delivering fireworks with the bat.
To that end, he has been working on countering the short ball. A deeper batting lineup has become increasingly essential across formats, as proved by India’s strategy in the recent Test series in England, where they relied on just three specialist bowlers supported by three all-rounders.
“Yes, I can hit in certain areas. But certain bowlers are there who come at me with short balls. So, during the IPL and even after it, I have been working on adding more shots,” Dube said.
India
