Shivam Dube credits Kohli, AB following maiden international call-up
The Indian team for the upcoming three-match T20I series against visitors Bangladesh was announced by the Indian selectors on Thursday, as teenager, Shivam Dube, earned his maiden call-up for the format. While fans were curious to know about this young talent, Dube was overwhelmed with his selection. Speaking following his call-up, Dube spoke on his journey so far. Here is what he said.
Who is Dube?
Dube hails from Mumbai and is primarily an all-rounder. He made headlines when he smashed five consecutive sixes in an over during a Ranji Trophy tie, last year. While he was also acquired by Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) for IPL 2019, sharing the dressing room with top players changed his approach. It was his brilliant stint with India-A that helped him earn his call-up.
Honestly, I expected the call-up: Dube
"Honestly, I expected the call-up. I have performed really well recently. Support from my coaches and family was there. It is all due to my domestic performances. I am always 100 percent ready. Give me any situation, I will go and perform," Dube told TOI.
Dube hails RCB stint for growing as a player
Speaking on maturing as a player, Dube hailed his stint with RCB, besides sharing the dressing room alongside greats like Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers. "The knowledge and learning [from RCB] I carried into the Vijay Hazare Trophy and India-A teams (against West Indies and South Africa) helped me perform really well there," he said.
De Villiers has helped me a lot: Dube
"De Villiers has helped me a lot. He always kept me calm and said keep smiling, your time will come. He has helped me a lot during net sessions. He has told me about different techniques and how to play fearlessly," added Dube.
Kohli's tip to Dube to become ruthless all-rounder
Dube also said that Kohli always gave him advice on how to become a ruthless all-rounder and credited him a lot for inspiring his gameplay. "He told me, the best part is that you are an all-rounder. Balance both skills (batting and bowling). You can be a match-winner. You can win matches for the team with both bat and ball," he continued.
My father has supported me a lot: Dube
"My father has supported me a lot. He told me 'focus on your game and respect everyone'. Whatever I am today, it is because of him. He told me 'greatness doesn't come with good cricket, it is also how you conduct yourself," he concluded.
Dube has had an average T20 career
Considering Dube's T20 career, it has been an average one. To date, he has played 19 T20 matches and has scored 242 runs at an average of 18.6, besides claiming 14 wickets at an average of 23.57. In the IPL, he has played just four matches, scoring 40 runs, while he is yet to claim a wicket. Thus, he would be conspicuous in T20Is.
