Thala’s Blueprint: Shivam Dube Credits MS Dhoni for Tactical Evolution and Finishing Mastery

Indian all-rounder Shivam Dube has attributed his recent transformation as a reliable middle-order finisher to the mentorship of former India captain MS Dhoni. Dube, who has evolved into a critical asset for the national side and the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), highlighted how Dhoni’s strategic advice helped him overcome early career struggles against pace bowling and refine his match awareness.

Speaking on his development, Dube noted that his initial stint in the IPL was marred by difficulties in timing the ball against fast bowlers. It was the intervention of the CSK skipper that provided the necessary clarity to alter his approach.

The Dhoni Advice: Controlled Aggression Over Brute Force

Dube’s reputation as a power-hitter often overshadowed the need for tactical nuance. According to Dube, Dhoni emphasized that longevity at the crease is as vital as boundary-hitting capabilities. This guidance proved pivotal in Dube’s resurgence during the 2023 and 2024 seasons.

“When I first came into the IPL, I struggled against fast bowlers and wasn’t striking the ball cleanly. I realized that if I want to dominate at this level and I have the power, I needed to work on that aspect,” Dube said in a statement cited by IPLT20.com.

“I put in significant effort during the off-season. Mahi bhai told me that it’s not necessary to hit sixes every time. Boundaries and strike rotation are equally important,” he added.

Key Statistics: Shivam Dube’s Recent Impact (T20 Is & IPL)

Dube’s application of this advice is evident in his recent international and league performances, where he has displayed maturity in building innings before launching consistent attacks in the death overs.

Adapting to Match Situations

The tactical shift involves a move away from reckless hitting toward calculated risk-taking. Dube explained that his current methodology focuses on assessing the bowler and the field placement before committing to a shot, a trait often associated with Dhoni’s own finishing style.

“That clarity has helped me. If I get a good ball, I look for a boundary or rotate strike. In the death overs, I will naturally go harder, but early in the innings, my focus is on smart intent,” Dube explained.

Handling Pressure in the Death Overs

One of the most significant improvements in Dube’s game is his temperament during high-pressure chases. By adopting a ‘deep’ batting philosophy, he ensures that the team retains a set batter for the final assault.

• Stability: Avoiding unnecessary risks during the middle overs to prevent collapses.
• Acceleration: Targeting 10–15 runs in the final over if set.
• Responsibility: Anchoring the innings if early wickets fall.

“I don’t feel pressure; I focus on the situation. If wickets fall, my responsibility is to bat deep. If I stay till the end, I know I can add 10–15 crucial runs in the final over. If the platform is set, I’m ready to attack from the first ball,” Dube stated.

Dube’s ability to execute this role has made him a strong contender for the national squad, offering the BCCI selectors a hard-hitting option who can also contribute with medium-pace bowling when required.

Note: While recent reports have circulated regarding a match against the Netherlands, Dube’s most notable recent match-winning knocks occurred during the T20I series against Afghanistan and for CSK in the IPL, solidifying his reputation as a spin-destroyer.

For more player statistics and match records, visit ESPNcricinfo.