Chennai Super Kings’ newest batting sensation Shivam Dube on Tuesday credited MS Dhoni’s inputs for having a consistent run in IPL 2022. Dube revealed the former captain’s words of advice after smashing a stunning 95 not out in CSK’s first win of the season, which came against Royal Challengers Bangalore in Mumbai on April 12. Dube, who made his IPL debut in 2019, showcased his big-hitting prowess in the past but he has struggled for consistency. However, the 28-year-old all-rounder has turned a new leaf after bagging a contract with CSK for Rs 4 crore. After hammering a 36-ball 49 against Lucknow Super Giants and a 30-ball 57 against Punjab Kings, Dube failed in CSK’s previous match against Sunrisers Hyderabad. However, the Mumbai batter went on a six-hitting spree as he smashed 95 from just 46 balls in a record partnership with Robin Uthappa as CSK posted 216 against RCB. Dube and Uthappa helped CSK collect 156 runs in the last 10 overs, smashing 17 sixes between them.
“I spoke to many seniors – Mahi bhai also helped me to improve the game. He said, ‘Just be focused, just be still, just let the skill work in the game.’ I wanted to time the ball really well. I tried to maintain my balance,” Dube said.
Dube needed six runs from the last ball of the CSK innings to get to his century, and had former CSK captain, MS Dhoni, alongside him at the non-striker’s end. However, the power-hitter fell 5 runs short of a well-deserved maiden IPL hundred. Meanwhile, Dube also said he has been told many times that his game resembles Yuvraj Singh’s while expressing delight at contributing to CSK’s first win of the new season.
“Many people told me that I bat like him. As the situation demands, as the captain and coach tell me,” he said. “We were looking for the first win and I am really happy that I contributed for the team. It’s an honour for me. I am more focused this time and focusing on basics,” Dube added. Having ended their winning run, CSK will be looking to build winning momentum when they next face Gujarat Titans on Sunday in Mumbai.
