Dynamic batter, who hit 5 sixes in an over twice may get surprise call-up to India's T20 World Cup squad; know here

The 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) season is in full swing, but amidst the ongoing matches, the anticipation for the announcement of India's team for the T20 World Cup 2024 is generating substantial buzz. Reports suggest that the team could be announced as early as May 1. As a result, players are putting forth their best performances in the IPL, hoping to secure their spots on the national team. Among those catching significant attention is Chennai Super Kings’ Shivam Dube.

India’s national team is on the lookout for a stellar all-rounder. Hardik Pandya fits this role perfectly, and his selection seems almost certain despite his current form not living up to his reputation. Pandya has been struggling both in form and in his leadership role. In this context, Shivam Dube’s role becomes crucial, and selectors are continuously discussing his potential inclusion. Although Dube is not bowling for Chennai, his batting performances have been impressive, leading fans and experts to advocate for his inclusion in the T20 World Cup squad.

Shivam Dube’s journey back into the national team has been marked by his refusal to look back. During a series against Afghanistan, Dube showcased his batting prowess. He scored 60 runs off 40 balls in Mohali, followed by 63 runs from just 32 balls in the next match. Over the series, he amassed 124 runs and was named the Man of the Series.

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Dube has continued this form into the IPL 2024, consistently scoring runs for Chennai Super Kings from the very first match. He has gained the complete trust of his captain, MS Dhoni. Dube’s performance began with an unbeaten 34 off 28 balls against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. He then scored 51 runs off 23 balls in his next outing, followed by 18 off 17 balls against Delhi Capitals. Against Sunrisers Hyderabad, Dube excelled again, scoring a rapid 45 runs off 24 balls.

In subsequent matches, Dube scored 28 off 18 balls against Kolkata Knight Riders and a significant 66 runs off 38 balls against Mumbai Indians. Although he faltered slightly against Lucknow Super Giants, scoring only 3 runs, he quickly rebounded in another match against Lucknow with 66 runs from 27 balls and scored 39 runs off 20 balls in his latest game against Hyderabad.

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Currently, Shivam Dube is among the top run-scorers in IPL 2024, ranking eighth. He has scored 350 runs in 9 matches at an average of 58.33 and a strike rate of 172.41, with his highest score being an unbeaten 66. Dube has hit three half-centuries so far this season.

Notably, Shivam Dube has achieved the remarkable feat of hitting five sixes in a single over twice in his career. He first accomplished this during a Ranji Trophy match against Baroda, and then again in the Mumbai T20 league against bowler Pravin Tambe.

As the T20 World Cup 2024 approaches, Shivam Dube's exceptional performances in the IPL are making a compelling case for his inclusion in the national squad. His ability to deliver under pressure and his prowess as a power-hitter could be crucial for India in the high-stakes matches expected in the tournament.

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