Shivam Dube reflects on long-awaited ODI comeback; downplays tie result against Sri Lanka

Indian all-rounder Shivam Dube has made an electrifying return to international cricket, winning the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 in the USA and West Indies and now turning heads on the ongoing tour of Sri Lanka, where the Men in Blue are currently playing a three-match ODI series.

Dube has been getting regular opportunities in the limited-overs cricket on the Sri Lanka tour. However, the first ODI between India and Sri Lanka ended in a tie, but the star all-rounder really enjoyed his first match in five years in the 50-over format.

Shivam Dube shines in long-awaited ODI comeback during tense tie against Sri Lanka

After a long hiatus since his debut in 2019, Dube marked his second appearance with a thrilling performance in the opening game of the ongoing three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka. Dube’s latest outing was nothing short of spectacular, as he showcased his all-round skills in a thrilling match against the hosts in Colombo.

Dube returned with the economical spell of 1/19 in 4 overs and made 25 runs off 24 balls in the first ODI match against the Islanders in Colombo. Despite the match ending in a nail-biting tie, Dube expressed immense satisfaction in his return and ongoing improvement as an all-rounder.

The Indian all-rounder is now focused on maintaining his momentum and said that he needs to bowl regularly to get regular chances in the Indian cricket team. Speaking about India’s performance, Dube defended the team’s approach by saying no team wants to lose the game; they tied the match.

Feels really good: Shivam Dube on ODI comeback

Shivam Dube was quoted as saying by Cricbuzz: “It feels great whenever you play for your country. I played my first match in 2019; I got my second game in 2024, a long time. Feels really good. We played really well; at some point, we lost wickets. Every team wants to win the match; we didn't lose the match and tied. I need to bowl regularly; I am working on it; good feeling for my side as well; I am enjoying it.”

Speaking about the ongoing second ODI against Sri Lanka, Team India started well and took control by taking the early wicket, with the Islanders’ score reading 135/4 in overs in Colombo. Well, before the start of the match, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma said that they are ready to chase again in Colombo after losing the toss to Sri Lanka.

It is really important to play with freedom: Rohit Sharma

Rohit stressed that it’s crucial for the team to adjust their mindset based on the conditions and play with a sense of freedom and noted that both teams performed well in the first ODI despite the game ending in a draw. He also said that the team will remain unchanged and ready for the next challenge.

Rohit Sharma said at the toss: “It's okay to chase again; we know what to expect when we chase. It has to be. You cannot always go and play with the same mindset and same way.”