Shivam Dube has credited the team management, specifically head coach Gautam Gambhir and bowling coach Morne Morkel, for his improved bowling performance in the recent T20I series against Australia. Dube's contributions with the ball have been crucial, especially with Hardik Pandya absent due to a left quadriceps strain.
Dube acknowledged that he had been working on his bowling but was not seeing the desired results until he started working with Morkel. He stated that Morkel provided "small, small tips" that significantly improved his bowling. These adjustments have seemingly transformed Dube from a "hit-me bowler" into a more strategic T20 bowler. According to Dube, Gautam Gambhir and Suryakumar Yadav also developed a plan to maximize his effectiveness. This plan focused on utilizing the conditions and bowling accordingly. A key element of this strategy was to target the larger boundaries, making it difficult for batsmen to hit big shots.
Gambhir's backing has been particularly important for Dube. Gambhir assured him of the team's support and encouraged him to bowl freely, even if it meant conceding runs. Dube revealed Gambhir told him, "You will concede runs, but I want you to express yourself". This support has given Dube the confidence to express himself on the field and not be afraid of making mistakes.
Dube's improved bowling has added a new dimension to the Indian team. He is no longer viewed solely as a batting option but as a genuine all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball. In the fourth T20I against Australia, Dube took two crucial wickets, dismissing Mitchell Marsh and Tim David, which helped India seal a 48-run win. David's wicket was especially significant as it came immediately after he had hit Dube for a six. Dube has taken 8 wickets in his last 7 T20I innings under Suryakumar Yadav.
The trust placed in Dube by the team management is evident in the opportunities he has been given. He was even entrusted with the new ball in the Asia Cup final against Pakistan after Hardik Pandya's injury. Dube's economy rate in the series against Australia might not fully reflect his impact, but his wickets have come at critical moments. Dube's ability to mix pace, angles, and back-of-length deliveries has made him more effective, especially on larger grounds where changes of pace are advantageous.
Dube's focus remains on the upcoming T20 World Cup, where he aims to help India defend their title. He recognizes the potential of playing in the 2027 World Cup in South Africa but is currently focused on the immediate goal. With the backing of the team management and his improved bowling skills, Dube is proving to be a valuable asset for India in the T20 format.
