Although initially hesitant to celebrate, Shivam Dube warmly acknowledged his teammates’ rousing reception following his impressive bowling performance against the UAE.
Shivam Dube Shines with Ball and Bat in Asia Cup 2025
Shivam Dube may not be the fastest bowler or the most explosive hitter, but the all-rounder has a Midas touch in crunch situations. His 16-ball 27 in the T20 World Cup final against South Africa was a game-changer, and he continued his impactful performances in India’s Asia Cup 2025 opener against the UAE at the Dubai International Stadium.
Alongside Kuldeep Yadav, Dube’s 3/4 helped bowl out the UAE for 57—the lowest T20I total against India—earning him the dressing room’s “man of the moment” recognition. Despite the accolades, Dube remained modest and slightly awkward when called upon to speak. Even captain Suryakumar Yadav’s playful prodding, referencing Shubman Gill, couldn’t immediately coax him into a speech or dance.
Eventually, Dube opened up: “I really enjoyed bowling today. I was keen to bowl in the match. And yes, I got the opportunity and worked really hard. Thanks Morne,” he said, acknowledging the support of bowling coach Morne Morkel.
Shivam Dube’s next stop
Although Shivam Dube’s bowling opportunities in the IPL may be limited due to the ‘Impact Player’ rule, he remains determined to establish himself as a genuine all-rounder for India, with guidance from head coach Gautam Gambhir and bowling coach Morne Morkel. After taking three wickets in just two overs against the UAE, Dube credited Morkel for his growth as a seam bowler.
“Morne has been working with me since I came back into the Indian team for the England series. He has given me specific advice, like bowling a line slightly outside off-stump, developing a slower delivery, and tweaking my run-up. The head coach and skipper told me my bowling will have a role to play,” Dube said during the post-match press conference.
Dube also focused on his fitness and batting skills over the past two months. “I have worked a great deal on my fitness. As far as batting is concerned, I know my role as a power-hitter in the middle overs. Bowlers have targeted me with short balls, and I’ve worked on expanding my range. As the tournament progresses, the wicket will slow, and my slower ball and batting in the middle overs will be effective,” he added.
