'Dube was not being treated properly' - Former India batter lauds Shivam Dube for his amazing performance against Afghanistan in 1st T20I

In a thrilling T20 encounter against Afghanistan, Shivam Dube showcased his prowess as an all-rounder. He led India to a convincing six-wicket victory in the first match of the three-game series at the Punjab Cricket Association's IS Bindra Stadium in Mohali.

Dube's exceptional performance with both bat and ball earned him widespread praise from cricket enthusiasts and experts alike. In his two-over bowling spell, the 30-year-old claimed a crucial wicket, conceding a mere nine runs.

However, it was his batting heroics during the chase that truly stole the spotlight. Dube played an unbeaten knock of 60 runs off 40 balls, including five fours and two sixes, steering India to victory with a display of maturity and composure.

Aakash Chopra, the former Indian cricketer turned commentator, lauded Dube's performance on his YouTube channel. Chopra emphasised that Dube's stellar show in the T20I against Afghanistan positions him as a strong contender for the upcoming T20 World Cup, especially if he continues his impressive form in the Indian Premier League (IPL) while representing the Chennai Super Kings.

"Shivam Ati Sundaram. He picked up a wicket, bowled only two overs, and then made 60 runs off 40 balls with a strike rate of 150. Shivam Dube has staked a claim once again. This is the World Cup year, and he bats in a good position for CSK in the IPL and does very well," Chopra opined.

"I was feeling that Dube was not being treated properly. We had spoken earlier that you made him sit out in the five matches against Australia and dropped him against South Africa, but now that he got a chance, he has not only grabbed it but made the most of it," the cricketer-turned-commentator added.

Aakash Chopra backs Shivam Dube as a replacement for Hardik Pandya

Aakash Chopra further commended Dube's ability to contribute with both bat and ball, suggesting that the seam-bowling all-rounder could serve as a credible backup to Hardik Pandya. Dube's match-winning performance earned him the Player of the Match accolade, solidifying his position as a standout performer in the contest.

"He had already picked up a wicket with the ball, but the way he batted, he played with great maturity. He finished the match. I think that's an important one when you close out the match," the 46-year-old stated.

"He said that he should be given chances as he can bowl as well. He said that if Hardik Pandya is unfit or unavailable for any reason, he can do the job. Player of the Match performance was Shivam Dube. The standout performer was Shivam Dube," he continued.

As India gears up for the T20 World Cup, Dube's consistent performances could prove instrumental in bolstering the team's middle order, adding depth to the squad, and providing a reliable alternative if needed. Cricket enthusiasts eagerly anticipate Dube's future exploits, particularly in the upcoming IPL season, where he will aim to further strengthen his case for a spot in the national team.