A fast-bowling all-rounder’s worth is no secret in Indian cricket. Considered a major asset in the white-ball format, such an all-rounder brings balance to the side, and gives the luxury of playing an extra bowler, or an extra batsman, to the skipper depending on the situation and conditions. But perhaps, the value of a fast bowler with a top-order batsman’s skills, is undermined in Tests.
And that is why India should start looking at someone like a Shivam Dube, who has not only been scoring runs, but also picking wickets for Mumbai. Given that Hardik Pandya is injury-prone, and has made his unavailability for Tests clear, Dube in this Ranji Trophy season, has emerged as the best bet.
The hard-hitting Dube was always on the radar for Team India in white-ball formats, but really consolidated his place during the Afghanistan T20Is, where he scored two fifties and picked two wickets. And now that form has translated into first-class form as well.
Shivam Dube @Ranji Trophy 2024
For the longest time, four-five years, Dube did not play any FC matches. But this Ranji season saw him making amends, and take the tournament by a storm.
He started out with a 41 against Bihar, including six wickets as well. Post that, he scored a 117 against UP, 51 against Kerala, 72 against Bengal, and 121 not out in the current match against Assam. In the five matches, he has 12 wickets as well, that only make his claim stronger.
If that’s not enough, this year alone he has 407 runs for Mumbai, at an average of 67.
A Chance in the Future
Even though Dube is not part of the current IND vs ENG series, and nor was a part of the India A squad for England Lions series, but a spate of consistent performances will go a long way in his future selection. And with a host of players’ performances being recognised, there is a possibility, that he might get a look in, sometime in future. He will only have to be consistent.
Also, given the nature of the sport, injuries in Team India has become a regular affair. And someone like Dube, can fill in, when the need arises. Just like when Ravindra Jadeja was injured for the second Test, Dube could have added value in time of need.
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