Former Indian opener Aakash Chopra is a strong advocate for including Shivam Dube in India’s squad for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2024. Dube, known for his powerful batting, has impressed Chopra with his recent performance against the Gujarat Titans (GT) in the ongoing IPL 2024.
Dube’s knock in the 7th match of IPL 2024 earned him the Player of the Match award. While commentating for Jio Cinema, Chopra could not help but sing Dube’s praises, particularly highlighting his power-hitting abilities and how he could be a valuable asset for India’s T20 World Cup squad.
On his YouTube channel, Chopra focused on Dube’s exceptional ability to clear boundaries with ease, especially in the crucial middle-order positions. “Ruturaj Gaikwad deserves a mention too,” Chopra admitted, “He played smartly after getting another chance. But Shivam Dube is the one who is really catching my eye. He is playing brilliantly. When he bats at number 5 or 6, is there anyone in India who hits sixes better than him?”
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Chopra’s confidence in Dube extends beyond his current form. He emphasizes the importance of having a strong hitter like Dube in the T20 World Cup squad. “He just goes out there and consistently smashes sixes,” Chopra explained. “Right now, nobody can match his power and consistency in hitting sixes.
There was a time he struggled with short balls, but he seems to have overcome that weakness. I do not see any major flaws in his game at the moment. He should definitely be playing in the T20 World Cup team.”
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Looking ahead to the World Cup venues, Chopra believes Dube’s strengths will be even more valuable. “Places like Florida, New York, or the Caribbean often have slower pitches and bigger boundaries. You need a strong batter who can handle those conditions, and that’s exactly what Shivam Dube is,” Chopra asserted. “So, there’s no doubt in my mind – he’s definitely part of my T20 World Cup plans.”
With Aakash Chopra’s vocal support and Dube’s explosive batting form in the IPL, the all-rounder has certainly made a strong case for himself to be included in India’s T20 World Cup squad.
However, the final decision rests with the selectors, who will have to weigh Dube’s strengths against other contenders for the coveted spot.
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