'We need him so that we can grow under him': CSK's most explosive batter hails MS Dhoni's impact on young players

Before the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023, cricketer followers had an idea about Shivam Dube's rare talent but the explosive batter struggled for consistency and to make a lasting impact.

SportsTak

• Wed • 31 May 2023

Before the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023, cricketer followers had an idea about Shivam Dube's rare talent but the explosive batter struggled for consistency and to make a lasting impact. The narrative about Dube changed after IPL 2023 as he played an instrumental role in Chennai Super Kings (CSK) fifth title triumph in the cash-rich tournament. The credit for Dube's revival goes to the franchise's skipper and 'messiah', MS Dhoni, who has revived laundering careers of many cricketers.

Dube finished as the 13th leading run-scorer in IPL 2023. The hard-hitting southpaw aggregated 418 runs in 14 innings at a strike rate of 158.33. He smashed 35 sixes in the recently-concluded competition and finished second in that category.

Dube revealed how Dhoni gave him clarity about what the team needed from him and it made a difference. The lanky batter also affirmed that the players need Dhoni in order to grow and realise their potential.

"I don't know whether he will be playing next season or not, but we need him, so that we can grow under him. Mahi bhai gave me clarity of thought," Dube told The Indian Express.

"He told me what my role is. It was simple, he told me that I have to increase my run-rate, adding that even if I get out early no problem but try to complete the task given. The brief was clear," Dube added.

Meanwhile, CSK clinched the IPL 2023 title after winning a nerve-jangling game by five wickets (DLS method) against Gujarat Titans on May 29 (Monday) at the Narendra Modi Stadium. The Men in Yellow tied Mumbai Indians' (MI) record of winning five Indian Premier League (IPL) titles after lifting the prestigious trophy on Monday. Just when it looked like Hardik Pandya's men will defend their crown, 'rockstar' Ravindra Jadeja rocked GT's hopes by delivering a sensational performance under immense pressure.