Shivam Dube is amongst the few bowlers in world cricket right now who is slowly but surely progressing in his games. Five years ago, when he made his T20 International debut for Team India, he was mostly recognized as a power hitter who could turn the match from the tail end of the batting order. Because of his hitting abilities, some went to compare Dube with the Indian cricket legend Yuvraj Singh.
At present, Dube is more than a slogger or power hitter; he has evolved himself into a pace bowling all-rounder. Ahead of India’s Super 8 match with South Africa, Team India bowling coach Morne Morkel shared the backstory of Shivam Dube’s evolution.
Morne Morkel shared the story of ‘bowler’ Shivam Dube
“This journey with Shivam Dube started more than a year ago when we gave him the responsibility to bowl for us in Dubai, even the first over,” Morkel said.
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The former South Africa pacer stated that the entire coaching staff was supporting the Mumbai-born throughout his evolution process. He reckoned the all-rounder as a highly talented prospect as well.
“As soon as you feel in that environment that you’re backed by the captain, the coach, and the staff, life becomes easier. You don’t have to try and prove yourself or try too hard. He’s got a lot of skill with the ball and variations; for him, it was just about building confidence and polishing up when to use those variations,” the bowling coach said.
Notable bowling stats of Shivam Dube
Dube was a member of India’s triumphant 2024 T20 World Cup. Now, he is playing in the 2026 T20 World Cup. In between the 2-year span, the all-rounder polished his bowling skills so much that he is contributing with the ball in every match.
During the previous edition of the ICC T20 WC, he delivered only one over in 8 matches. In the ongoing campaign, after playing 4 matches, he has 3 wickets in the bag in 5.2 overs, including a figure of 2/35. Last year in Dubai, when India was in the Men’s T20 Asia Cup, Dube picked up 5 wickets in 6 matches.
He is hungry: Morkel
Morkel further explains, as a big hitter, Shivam Dube himself knows very well about the strengths of a batter and the possible weaknesses as well. He practiced according to that in the nets. Morkel was delighted to see when the all-rounder used to crave more wickets.
“As a power hitter himself, he works out what is the hardest ball to bowl. We’ve given him the backing and said, ‘If you go for a boundary, it’s okay. You’re a guy who can pick up wickets for us and bring control with the ball.’ We slowly developed that, and there were times I could see him walking off disappointed not having a bowl, which for me was great to see. He’s hungry,” Morkel said.
