IND vs AFG 2024: “Definitely in my mind to play T20 World Cup, but it’s far away” – Shivam Dube

Indian all-rounder Shivam Dube said he wants to be part of the upcoming T20 World Cup squad but the tournament is still far away. Dube performed at his best in the first T20I against Afghanistan, scoring a fine knock of 60 runs off just 40 balls in the run-chase of 159 runs at Mohali.

Furthermore, Dube returned with impressive figures of 1-9 in the two overs he bowled. He accounted for Afghanistan captain Ibrahim Zadran and thus he was awarded Player of the Match for his all-round performance.

Meanwhile, Dube had a stellar run in IPL 2023 for CSK, scoring 418 runs in 14 innings at an impressive average of 38 and a strike rate of 158.33. Ergo, he played a key role in taking the MS Dhoni-led team to glory in the previous season.

Thus, another impressive performance in the upcoming Indian Premier League can help Dube make the cut into the T20 World Cup squad.

Shivam Dube said in the press conference as quoted by PTI, “Any player playing in the team aims to play in the World Cup. It’s definitely in my mind to play the World Cup, but it’s far away.”

“Right now, I am aiming to play tomorrow’s game and take it on a match-by-match basis,” he went on to add.

Dube added that the IPL would be a very important tournament for them as it will be a big platform for the players to grab their chances.

“It (IPL) would be equally important for all of us, as there are only two T20Is remaining. IPL is a big platform, and if you fare well in it, you get the chance to make it to the (national) team,” Dube told reporters ahead of the second T20I against Afghanistan.

“There is a team planning and combination in place. The more we play T20s, the more we get to understand it better,” he stated.

Dube revealed that he is working hard both physically and mentally to get the best out of himself.

“It’s difficult when things don’t go your way, and you don’t think about things you cannot do at that time. So, I thought about what I have done in the past would be better. I have practiced and processed to be better both physically and mentally, besides working on my skills.”

The second T20I between India and Afghanistan will be played at Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore on Sunday.