Image: BCCI

Shivam Dube’s Impactful Performances Raise Questions Over Recognition

Shivam Dube’s recent performances in major tournaments have once again brought attention to his role in India’s middle order, with several observers noting that his contributions have often gone underappreciated.

In the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup final, Dube delivered a crucial innings under high-pressure circumstances, steadying the innings when the stakes were at their highest. He had also impressed during the Asia Cup with both bat and ball, producing impactful spells that contributed significantly to India’s campaign.

Former India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh, speaking on Match Centre, highlighted Dube’s consistency across tournaments. Harbhajan stated that Dube’s performances often come in situations where the team requires stability and momentum, pointing to his contributions in the Asia Cup and previous matches as evidence of his reliability.

In a high-pressure encounter against Pakistan, Dube played a finishing role, ensuring India crossed the line with composure. In the latest match, when several batters struggled to find timing and clear the boundary, Dube anchored the innings, selecting his scoring opportunities carefully before accelerating. While he may not be known for quick running between the wickets, his ability to strike cleanly at critical moments proved decisive.

Dube’s innings of 66 also set a new benchmark, surpassing Hardik Pandya’s 63 — previously the highest score by an Indian batter batting at No. 5 or lower in an ICC Men’s T20 World Cup match. Pandya had scored 63 off 33 balls against England in the semifinal, a record that Dube has now overtaken.

Across multiple tournaments and high-stakes fixtures, Dube’s performances have reinforced his value as a middle-order contributor capable of delivering in demanding situations.