Ravichandran Ashwin hails Shivam Dube as a promising finisher in the absence of Hardik Pandya 

Ravichandran Ashwin showered praise on Shivam Dube for his triumphant return to the national team. Dube, showcasing his skills with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) during the Indian Premier League (IPL), has caught Ashwin’s attention for his proficiency as an all-rounder. The spinner believes that Dube is seamlessly stepping into the shoes of Hardik Pandya, particularly excelling in the finishing role during the shortest format of the game.

During IPL 2023, Dube made a mark by amassing 418 runs in 16 games with a remarkable strike rate of 158.33. He achieved three half-centuries, showcasing his batting prowess. Dube’s excellence continued in the Deodhar Trophy, where he scored an unbeaten 83* off 78 balls, demonstrating his proficiency against spin bowling.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, he said, “Shivam Dube did really well in Deodhar Trophy. We have yet another player in the finishing role in Hardik Pandya’s absence. If you need a player for the finishing role who can bat and bowl a bit.”

Ashwin’s sentiment is shared with the inclusion of other multi-talented players, such as Jitesh Sharma and Rinku Singh, who also have the potential to contribute significantly.

“We have got three multi-utility players in this series in Jitesh Sharma. We should consider a keeper as an all-rounder in Jitesh Sharma. A keeper who can finish. Rinku can also bowl a bit. He fields exceptionally well. We have a left-hand finisher in him. Shivam Dube is another left-hand finisher and is a dominant hitter of spin bowling,” Ashwin concluded.