Shivam Dube opens up about Rahul Dravid, Rohit Sharma's support during rollercoaster ride at T20 World Cup 2024

Published - 18 Jul 2024, 05:07 PM | Updated - 23 Aug 2024, 01:15 AM

Rohit Sharma and Shivam Dube
Rohit Sharma and Shivam Dube. Image Credit: Instagram

Indian Cricket Team all-rounder Shivam Dube has described his experience in the recent ICC T20 World Cup 2024 in the USA and West Indies as “challenging and motivating." Dube was a regular in India’s playing XI throughout the T20 World Cup 2024, despite struggling with his form.

Dube's performance in Team India’s triumphant T20 World Cup 2024 campaign was underwhelming, with just 133 runs across eight matches and his highest score being 34. However, the star all-rounder showcased his value when it mattered most for India at the mega event.

Shivam Dube reflects on challenging yet motivating T20 World Cup 2024 journey

His quickfire 27 off 16 balls and crucial 57-run partnership with Virat Kohli for the fifth wicket in the T20 World Cup 2024 final proved crucial in the Men in Blue’s 7-run win over South Africa to end their ICC trophy drought of 11 years last month in Barbados.

Meanwhile, Dube expressed gratitude towards Indian captain Rohit Sharma and former coach Rahul Dravid for their unwavering support throughout the T20 World Cup 2024. He described their encouragement as instrumental in bolstering his mental resilience and determination in the tournament.

The Indian all-rounder further noted that Rohit and Dravid’s consistent backing not only motivated him but also reaffirmed his belief in his abilities, and it eventually kept him focused and positive, enabling him to overcome setbacks and contribute to the team's success.

Looking ahead, Dube expressed a renewed determination to improve his skills further and play a crucial role in the Indian cricket team's future successes. Notably, he was recently part of India’s 4-1 T20I series win in Zimbabwe and is likely to be named in the squad for the Sri Lanka tour.

Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid's guidance helped me stay focused and believe in myself: Shivam Dube

Shivam Dube was quoted as saying by IANS: “It was both challenging and motivating. It was a test of my mental strength and perseverance. The unwavering support from our captain and coach was incredible. They constantly supported me, encouraging me to stay positive and keep working hard.

Their faith in my abilities and their guidance helped me stay focused and believe in myself. This experience has made me stronger and more determined to improve and contribute to the team’s success in the future.”

Speaking about his thought process throughout the T20 World Cup 2024, Dube said that his focus was on maintaining a positive mindset and delivering his best in every situation.

The all-rounder said that he now understood the importance of mental resilience and believed in his capabilities. Dube signed off by saying, “During the tournament, my mind was focused on staying positive and giving my best at every opportunity I got. It was a journey filled with challenges and triumphs, especially during tough times, but those moments only fueled my determination to keep pushing forward.

I knew I had to stay mentally strong and trust in my abilities. The tournament was intense and highly competitive, which pushed me to grow as a player. The support from my teammates, coaches, and fans kept me motivated. Overall, it was a valuable learning experience, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to represent my country on such a big stage.”