Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Jan 29: Shivam Dube on Wednesday didn’t just tear into New Zealand’s bowling attack — he underlined his growing stature as a dangerous T20 match-winner ahead of the highly anticipated T20 World Cup at home.
The India all-rounder played a blistering knock of 65 off just 23 deliveries, showcasing a sharper mindset and improved match awareness. Dube said regular opportunities at the international level have helped him evolve into a “smarter” batter, capable of reading situations and bowlers better than before.
While his sensational 29-run over against leg-spinner Ish Sodhi grabbed attention, Dube also sent a clear message about another major improvement — his comfort against pace. With three towering sixes off Jacob Duffy and Matt Henry, the left-hander proved that fast bowling is no longer a safe option against him.
“It’s just the hard work which I’m doing. I’m getting better with my mindset because I’m playing all those matches and batting in that situation,” Dube said after the match. “So, I know what’s going to happen, what are the main things which a bowler is going to come to me.”
Dube credited consistent game time for helping him prepare better for different challenges. He also highlighted that getting chances to bowl has added to his growth as a cricketer, even though he didn’t bowl in the match.
“That’s the key point for my batting and bowling as well. I’m bowling thanks to Gauti bhai and Surya bhai. They have given me the bowling opportunity,” he said. “So, when you bowl, you become a little smart. I’m working on that as well and trying to develop some more skills.”
The power-hitter said experience has changed his approach in recent months, pushing him to constantly improve.
“There is something called experience and that has come to me and that is going in the right direction,” Dube added. “All the players upgrade themselves… I can’t be the same as I was. I try to be a little better, a little smarter in the next game.”
Dube’s innings included a 15-ball half-century, the third fastest in T20I history, but he insisted he wasn’t chasing records.
“I was focusing on every ball. I was not thinking about getting a fifty in 15 balls,” he said.
Explaining his brutal takedown of Sodhi, Dube said he sensed hesitation from the bowler and was ready to pounce.
“I knew that even he is a little scared, he was going to bowl me the bad ball. I was ready for that. So I wanted to dominate — and that is what I did.”