Ravichandran Ashwin’s recent praise for Shivam Dube has garnered significant attention in the cricketing world. The commendation didn’t emerge from thin air. Shivam Dube’s recent performances for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) have been nothing short of outstanding.
Dube’s heroics for CSK are a testimony to his grit and determination. But what makes his journey even more laudable is his national comeback. Ashwin, an ace spinner, observed a gap in the Indian cricket team. Hardik Pandya’s absence left a void in the team, especially in the shortest format. Dube seems to be filling that void quite effectively. Moreover, his batting prowess complements his role as an all-rounder.
In the recently concluded IPL 2023, Dube’s stats speak for themselves. In 16 games, he managed to score 418 runs. With a commendable strike rate of 158.33, he bagged three half-centuries. Such achievements don’t go unnoticed. After the IPL, he continued to dazzle in the Deodhar Trophy. Representing West Zone against North Zone, he scored a noteworthy 83* off 78 balls. Overall, he accumulated 119 runs in five matches.
Ashwin, on his YouTube channel, shared his insights. He emphasized Dube’s consistent performance. “Shivam Dube did really well in the recently concluded Deodhar Trophy too,” Ashwin noted. Highlighting the need for a finisher, Ashwin’s remarks suggested that in Pandya’s absence, Dube could be the perfect replacement.
But Ashwin didn’t stop at Dube. He also highlighted the potential of Rinku Singh and Jitesh Sharma. Both have showcased their capabilities in recent matches. Jitesh Sharma, in particular, has caught Ashwin’s eye. “We have got three multi-utility players in this series in Jitesh Sharma,” Ashwin remarked. Describing him as a keeper-all-rounder, Ashwin emphasized the importance of a keeper who can also finish.
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Jitesh Sharma’s stats are commendable. Playing for Punjab Kings, he scored 543 runs in 26 games over two IPL seasons. A striking rate of 159.24 further attests to his capabilities on the field.
Meanwhile, Rinku Singh has been carving a niche for himself as well. He emerged as the top run-scorer for the Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2023. With 474 runs in 14 games, he boasts a strike rate of 149.53. Moreover, his game-changing moment, where he hit five sixes when his team required 28 off the last five balls, is etched in IPL history.
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Ashwin’s endorsement is clear. Dube, Singh, and Sharma possess the skills and tenacity required for the Men in Blue. Their recent performances indicate a promising future for them and for Indian cricket.
The future of Indian cricket seems to be in competent hands. With players like Dube, Singh, and Sharma stepping up, fans have a lot to look forward to. Ashwin’s endorsement only solidifies their position in the cricketing community. It’s a new dawn for the Men in Blue.
