‘Comparing myself to Yuvi Paaji would be foolish’ – Shivam Dube

Shivam Dube. (Source -IPL/BCCI)

In cricket, every player dreams of a breakthrough year, a time when their skills align with opportunity, and they shine brighter than ever before. For Shivam Dube, 2024 has been just that—a fairytale journey of perseverance and triumph.

Since his debut in 2019, Dube has been on a quest to prove his worth. But it wasn’t until this year that he truly showcased his potential, wielding the bat with a Midas Touch that captured the attention of selectors across the nation. Regardless of the team he played for, Dube left an indelible mark, his performances demanding recognition.

As the T20 World Cup 2024 looms, Dube finds himself at the forefront of discussions, his name etched into the squad destined for the West Indies and the USA. His rise to prominence hasn’t gone unnoticed, and it has even put pressure on established players like Hardik Pandya to reaffirm their positions.

Reflecting on his journey, Dube remains humble, deflecting comparisons to Indian cricket legend Yuvraj Singh. “Comparing myself to Yuvi Paaji would be foolish,” he remarked in a recent interview with BCCI. “I have my own style, and while it may bear some resemblance to his, I focus on being the best version of myself.”

Dube’s journey is not just about skill but also about mental preparation and seizing opportunities. “It’s about applying myself at the right time and in the right way,” he emphasized. “When the captain trusts you, you express yourself on the field, and that’s crucial.”

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Embracing Opportunity: Dube’s journey and the road ahead

Looking ahead, Dube remains grounded and focused on contributing to his team’s success. “I don’t think about whether I’ll play or not; I focus on how I can perform to benefit the team,” he stated. “The rest is in the hands of a higher power.”

As Dube continues to defy expectations and carve his path in cricket, his journey serves as a testament to perseverance, dedication, and belief in one’s abilities. Going forward, it will be quite interesting to see that how does Dubey performs in the T20 WC if he gets an opportunity there.