Shivam Dube hails Rohit Sharma, Rahul Dravid for ‘unwavering support’

India’s all-rounder Shivam Dube hailed captain Rohit Sharma and former head coach Rahul Dravid for their unwavering support. The captain-coach duo played an instrumental role in getting the best out of the players and helped India get over the line in the T20 World Cup 2024.

Meanwhile, Dube wasn’t able to grab his opportunities with both hands in the initial stages of the T20I showpiece but Rohit and Dravid kept backing the all-rounder.

Dube scored 133 runs in eight matches of the World Cup at an average of 22.16 and a strike rate of 114.65. The left-hander played a crucial cameo of 16-ball 27 in the all-important final against South Africa to help India post 176 runs on the board.

“The World Cup journey taught me a lot. The final was a crucial moment, and I am glad I could contribute to the team’s efforts. Every match in the T20 World Cup was a learning experience, and the support from my teammates and fans kept me motivated. In the end, it’s about giving your best for the team and making every opportunity count,” Dube told IANS.

Dube admitted it was challenging when he could not get going at the start of the World Cup but received backing from Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid.

“It was both challenging and motivating. It was a test of my mental strength and perseverance. The unwavering support from our captain and coach was incredible. They constantly backed me, encouraging me to stay positive and keep working hard. Their faith in my abilities and their guidance helped me stay focused and believe in myself. This experience has made me stronger and more determined to improve and contribute to the team’s success in the future,” said Dube.

Meanwhile, Dube smashed a fine cameo of 12-ball 26 with the help of two fours and as many sixes to get India to 167 in the fifth T20I against Zimbabwe.

Dube also contributed with the ball as he returned with impressive figures of 2-25 in his quota of four overs. The right-arm medium pacer accounted for Zimbabwe’s top-scorer Dion Myers and Jonathan Campbell.

Dube was awarded Player of the Match for his fine performance.