"I Am Always Prepared" – Freed from IPL Constraints, Shivam Dube Shines with the Ball for India
India allrounder Shivam Dube delivered a career-best performance with the ball to help dismantle UAE in their Asia Cup 2025 opener, claiming 3 for 4 and showcasing the results of months of hard work behind the scenes.
Since the implementation of the Impact Player rule in IPL 2023, Dube's opportunities to contribute as a bowler have been minimal. Across the past three IPL seasons, he bowled just three overs, conceding 47 runs for a single wicket. But rather than allowing the limitation to curb his growth, Dube used the time to improve his fitness and hone his bowling craft — preparation that paid off handsomely on Wednesday night in Dubai.
“The captain and coach told me earlier that I will bowl [in the Asia Cup] and that they’re confident in me,” Dube said at the post-match press conference. “I was preparing for this for a long time. What happened today is because of that preparation.”
Dube’s spell against UAE included a fine display of skill: a seam-up delivery that nipped away to remove Asif Khan, a nip-backer that trapped Dhruv Parashar lbw, and a slower ball that tempted Junaid Siddique into a mistimed slog.
Overcoming the IPL Impact Player Challenge
When asked about the lack of bowling opportunities in the IPL, Dube acknowledged the challenges posed by the Impact Player rule but emphasized his personal commitment.
“Because of that [rule], in the IPL there wasn’t a necessity for me to bowl. But from my side, I was always prepared,” he said. “Every match, I was ready to bowl. I worked very hard before the IPL too — two months of focus on fitness and bowling.”
Dube credited India's bowling coach Morne Morkel for guiding him through technical improvements, including adjustments to his run-up, angle of release, and variations.
“Morne told me a few small things — to bowl wider, to use the crease, to change my angles — and it’s working. My pace has also improved, and I feel confident.”
Eye on Allround Excellence
Beyond his bowling, Dube has also been diligently working on his batting, particularly on improving his ability to handle short-pitched bowling at pace — a known area of vulnerability.
“I was working on adding new shots,” Dube said. “Some bowlers target me with the short ball, so I worked on handling that — both during and after the IPL. I’ve also been focusing on fitness so I can bowl four overs whenever required.”
India’s decision to play Dube in the XI against UAE reflects a broader strategy to deepen the batting line-up till No. 8 while adding flexibility in the bowling department. In the absence of Hardik Pandya, Dube’s dual role is being seen as a vital asset.
“As an allrounder, I am always prepared for four overs,” he added. “Whenever I get an opportunity, I want to do what the team needs.”
Learning from Hardik, Inspired by Gambhir
While not drawing direct comparisons, Dube acknowledged the influence of Hardik Pandya on his development.
“Hardik is like a brother to me. He has so much experience, and I always try to learn from him — both in batting and bowling. I don’t compare myself to him; I just try to take things from him to improve.”
Dube also spoke about the mindset instilled by India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir, especially when asked about the upcoming clash against Pakistan.
“Gautam sir always says, when you go on the ground, you have a chance to do something big for your country,” Dube said. “So whether it’s UAE or Pakistan, I want to do a miracle on the ground and make my country proud.”
Respect for Opponents
Asked about UAE's struggles against India’s mystery spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy, Dube was respectful.
“I won’t say they [UAE batters] are not of the same class. That doesn’t send a good message. Yes, Kuldeep and Varun are mystery bowlers. Even I can’t pick them sometimes in the nets.”
With India’s convincing win and Dube’s standout performance, the spotlight is firmly on the left-handed allrounder to play a bigger role as the Asia Cup progresses — and possibly beyond.