India all-rounder Shivam Dube played an explosive knock of 65 runs from just 23 deliveries.against New Zealand in the fourth T20I of the five-match series. Though the innings came in a losing cause, it must have done wonders for the 32-year-old's confidence. This was his first 50+ score in the format since January, 2025 and it saw him smash three boundaries and seven towering sixes.
Dube playing with an improved mindset
Following the match, Dube remarked that his mindset has gotten a lot better than before by featuring in matches for India on a regular basis. He further said that he now knows how to give a fitting response to opposing bowlers and knows what to expect from them as well.
“It’s just the hard work I’m putting in. Playing regularly in these matches and situations has improved my mindset. I now understand what to expect from bowlers and how to respond" Dube said in the post-match press-conference.
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The all-rounder credited Suryakumar Yadav and Gautam Gambhir for regularly getting opportunities and for his growth as an all-rounder. He has left many impressed after being given chances to bowl and bat. This has led to him improving his bowling abilities and smoothly transition into a proper all-rounder.
“Bowling has made me smarter, and I’m working on developing additional skills. I’ve worked hard and been given the chance to bowl and bat in various match situations. Experience plays a crucial role, and it’s paying off. Players and teams constantly upgrade themselves, and I strive to be smarter and better in each game," Dube stated.
“It’s important to match up against both spinners and fast bowlers. My role is to keep the strike rate high in the middle overs, which I always aim to do. Understanding my strengths and targeting them appropriately is key," he added.
Dube's bowling performance vs NZ
Meanwhile, even though Dube didn't get an opportunity to bowl during the fourth T20I, he did bowl in each of the first three matches. He has clinched three wickets in the series and is one of the biggest positives for the team going into the T20 World Cup. It remains to be seen if the all-rounder will be able to maintain his form in the final T20I of the series against New Zealand that will be held on January 31.