Shivam Dube’s three-wicket haul for just four runs in India’s crushing Asia Cup win over the UAE has suddenly made him one of the key talking points of the tournament. Known more for his batting fireworks, Dube showcased his evolution as a true all-rounder with a spell that choked the opposition and set the tone for India’s dominance. After the match, Dube credited bowling coach Morne Morkel for helping him sharpen his bowling craft and regain confidence with the ball.
According to Dube, Morkel’s guidance has been instrumental over the past few months. The first major change was a slight adjustment in his line. Instead of bowling too straight, which often made him predictable, Morkel encouraged him to consistently target just outside the off stump. This subtle shift created more chances for edges and mishits while forcing batters to play away from their body. Alongside the line adjustment, Dube added a well-disguised slower delivery to his arsenal. This change of pace allowed him to deceive batters on surfaces that were otherwise good for shot-making.
Another tweak was in his run-up. Dube admitted that earlier he struggled with rhythm, sometimes rushing through his stride and losing control at the point of release. With Morkel’s input, he shortened his approach slightly, found a smoother rhythm, and improved his balance at the crease. These refinements allowed him to maintain better accuracy and extract more from the pitch.
Dube also mentioned that the team management had backed him to contribute with the ball and not just be seen as a batting all-rounder. That trust, combined with technical improvements, has given him the confidence to bowl in crucial phases. His recent spells suggest that India may have found another seam-bowling option who can chip in with breakthroughs and maintain pressure through middle overs.
Against UAE, Dube’s spell followed a demolition job from Kuldeep Yadav, who took 4-7. The left-arm spinner had ripped through the batting lineup, and Dube’s control ensured there was no late resistance. India bowled UAE out for just 57, before chasing down the target in a record 4.3 overs. The result not only gave India their fastest T20I chase but also a massive net run rate boost early in the tournament.
This bowling turnaround could have long-term implications for Dube’s role. With India looking to build a flexible T20 squad, an in-form seam-bowling all-rounder adds valuable balance, giving captain Suryakumar Yadav more options to rotate bowlers and manage workloads.
For Dube personally, the spell is more than just numbers—it is a statement that he is ready to shoulder responsibility on both fronts. If he continues this trajectory, he could become a permanent fixture in India’s white-ball setup, no longer just the big-hitting finisher but a reliable bowler too. Morne Morkel’s influence is proving decisive, and Dube’s rise is timely as India eye the Asia Cup trophy and beyond.
12BET Shortlisted for Sportsbook Operator of the Year at SBC Awards 2025