'He is like my brother': Shivam Dube downplays comparison with Hardik, credits 'key tips' from Morkel for inspiring show

Shivam Dube downplays comparison with Hardik Pandya (AP Photo)

Shivam Dube left most surprised with his inspiring effort with the ball. He was a key element in India’s triumphant 2024 T20 World Cup run and has continued to make his presence felt in the Asia Cup. The 32-year-old all-rounder was included in the playing XI for India’s opener against UAE on Wednesday, which the Men In Blue won by nine wickets. And Dube returned with figures reading 3/4 in 2 overs as UAE were bowled out for 57 in 13.1 overs.

Dube doesn't bowl as much as team's other pace-bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya. Even in the IPL, he primarily contributes with the bat mostly operating as an Impact Player for the Chennai Super Kings. Hardik, on the other hand, is frequently seen opening the attack with the new ball in IPL and was also the case against UAE.

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"The captain and coach told me beforehand that I would bowl. ‘We have confidence in you,’ they said. My bowling coach helped me with a lot of things. I had been preparing for a long time to be ready whenever the opportunity came. What happened today was the reward for that preparation.

"During the England series, he (Morkel) gave me a couple of key tips. He told me to use the crease and bowl from wide of the stumps. He also advised me on getting my slower ones right. I’ve been working on that for a long time. He even helped me adjust my run-up. Because of those tweaks, I have been able to bowl well. My pace is good, and I feel confident with the ball in hand," Dube told mediapersons after the win.

In the opening match, India selected Axar Patel, Varun Chakaravarthy, and Kuldeep Yadav as their three spinners. Jasprit Bumrah was added as the specialist pacer. Dube and Hardik Pandya, both all-rounders, gave the pace attack more depth.

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After outshining Hardik in the first game, Dube expressed gratitude towards the Mumbai Indians star and downplayed any comparison talks. "Hardik is the kind of player from whom I keep learning. He is like my brother. His experience in the IPL and international cricket is huge. I want to learn as much as I can from him. I keep asking him questions, even about batting. I have never thought about comparisons. All I want, playing alongside him, is to learn and use that knowledge to improve myself," he said.