Indian all-rounder Shivam Dube has expressed gratitude to outgoing head coach Rahul Dravid and captain Rohit Sharma for their assistance during his difficult time at the ICC T20 World Cup 2024.
India won the T20 World Cup 2024, which was contested in the USA and the Caribbean, in an exciting final. Dube’s batting performance was a source of concern throughout the tournament as he only managed 13 runs in eight matches. But even though Dube struggled at first, his perseverance and the management’s confidence in his ability eventually helped him to produce a vital performance on June 29 during India’s triumphant final versus South Africa.
In the final match against South Africa, Dube’s breakthrough occurred when India found themselves in a precarious situation at 103/4 after 13.3 overs. The 31-year-old rose to the situation and created a crucial 57-run partnership for the fifth wicket with Virat Kohli. His rapid strike rate of 27 off 16 balls was crucial in keeping the innings stable and moving the team towards a manageable target. Dube shared details about his travels.
The World Cup experience gave me a lot to learn. It was an important time in the final, and I’m happy I could help the squad out. Throughout the T20 World Cup, every game was an educational experience, and I was inspired by my teammates’ and the fans’ support. Ultimately, it’s about playing to the best of your ability for the team and seizing every chance,” Dube stated, as cited by NDTV Sports.
Their confidence in my ability kept me on task: Shivam Dube
The all-round player specifically mentioned how Rohit and Dravid helped him stay confident during the competition.
It was stimulating as well as demanding. It was an attempt to gauge my fortitude and mental toughness. Our coach and captain provided consistent support, which was amazing. They supported me consistently and gave me motivation to keep pushing myself,” Dube continued.
According to Dube, this support was essential in enabling him to get through his obstacles and perform when it counted most.
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“Their confidence in my skills and direction kept me on task and in self-belief. I’m stronger and more driven than ever to get better and help the team succeed going forward,” he continued.
Following the competition, Dube played in the T20I series against Zimbabwe, where he took up the Player of the Match award for his brilliant 12-ball 26 in the series’ penultimate game.