IND vs AFG: Suresh Raina Makes Colossal 'T20 WC Player Of The Tournament' Prediction For Shivam Dube

Published - 12 Jan 2024, 04:30 PM | Updated - 23 Aug 2024, 12:25 AM

Shivam Dube, Suresh Raina
Shivam Dube (Image Credits: Twitter)

Former Indian all-rounder Suresh Raina believes that Shivam Dube could emerge as the Player of the Tournament in the T20 World Cup 2024. Suresh Raina stated that Dube would be a valuable asset for the team, especially considering the conditions in the ICC event.

Shivam Dube played a pivotal role in India’s six-wicket victory over Afghanistan in the first T20I of the three-match series in Mohali on January 11. Dube scored an unbeaten 60 off 40 balls, featuring two sixes and five fours. He took one wicket for nine runs in two overs.

The 30-year-old emerged as the ‘Player of the Match’ for his all-round contribution to India’s victory. The Men in Blue took an unassailable 1-0 lead in the ongoing series. The second T20I is set to be played at the Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore on Sunday, January 14.

How MS Dhoni Uses Shivam Dube In Chennai – Suresh Raina

During a discussion on Colors Cineplex, Suresh Raina said that Shivam Dube could be a strong contender for the title of ‘Player of the Tournament’ in the T20 World Cup if he performs well in the IPL 2024.

“A lot of eyes will be on Shivam Dube in this IPL about how MS Dhoni uses him in Chennai. If he does well in the two months of the IPL, don’t be surprised if he is the Man of the Tournament in the World Cup,” Raina said.

“Since he is bowling, the captain could get a thought whether he can bowl two overs or if he can be used as a floater. He can bat anywhere from No. 4 to No. 7. When the matches will be played on the Caribbean or American wickets, he has a good slower one as well,” he added.

Shivam Dube will represent Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. In the last season, the left-handed batter scored 418 runs in 16 matches at a strike rate of 158. However, the medium-pacer did not deliver a single ball in the IPL 2023.

Shivam Dube Spent A Little Time – Suresh Raina

Suresh Raina encouraged Shivam Dube to capitalize on his current good form in order to secure a spot in the World Cup squad. Raina highlighted that Dube’s left-handed batting provides him with an added advantage in securing a place.

“He picked up a wicket and when he got to bat, we saw the form. He spent a little time. The way he is showing form, he did well in first-class cricket also recently, when your self-confidence is high, make as many runs as possible,” Raina further added.

“He has the passion and self-confidence. The attacking cricket he plays, we need a left-hander like that who can play in the top six. I feel Shivam Dube will get the ticket for the World Cup,” he concluded.

The all-rounder made his T20I debut against Bangladesh in 2019. Dube has amassed 212 runs in 19 T20Is, maintaining an impressive average of 35.33 and a strike rate of 139.47. He picked up seven wickets at a disappointing economy rate of 9.49.

Also read: IND vs AFG: “MS Dhoni Has Rated Me Many Times As A Very Good Player” – Shivam Dube