He just asks you to...: CSK all-rounder gives interesting take on playing under Dhoni

India all-rounder Shivam Dube opened up on his role at Chennai Super Kings (CSK) during the 2023 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Dube, who had a fantastic season with the bat for CSK, shared his thoughts on his bowling abilities and his interaction with MS Dhoni.

3 things you need to know

• Shivam Dube scored 418 runs in 14 matches for CSK in IPL 2023
• Dube, along with Jadeja, helped CSK beat GT in the 2023 final
• CSK clinched their record-equalling 5th IPL trophy in 2023

 ALSO READ: 'They Are The Backbone Of Middle-order': Mohammad Kaif Ends Iyer-Rahul-Kishan Debate

Shivam Dube's performance in IPL 2023

Dube emerged as one of CSK's star performers during the IPL 2023, amassing 418 runs in 14 innings at a blistering strike rate of 158.33. However, despite being a capable all-rounder, he was primarily used as a specialist batter throughout the tournament.

When asked about his limited bowling opportunities and whether he had discussed it with Dhoni, Dube, while talking to former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra on JioCinema, explained, "If I talk about the CSK team, the sixth option itself was Moeen Ali. I come as the seventh option, so it's only if it's very much required. That is one thing because of the Impact Player rule. I am trying to make myself better so that I can contribute one or two overs for the team."

Dube also emphasized his faith in Dhoni's judgment, stating Dhoni was supportive of his bowling efforts.

"If I tell him (Dhoni), I feel it will be a huge insult to him. He knows when to bowl me. He just asks you to keep playing and not to take tension. When I started bowling, he said that my bowling had improved from last year," Dube said.

Shivam Dube desires to play in World Cup

Regarding his future aspirations, Dube expressed his desire to represent the Indian cricket team and contribute to winning the World Cup. He acknowledged the need for consistent performances to earn his place in a full-strength Indian squad.

"My thinking is always that I have to play for the Indian team and do something for the country. It is always in my mind that if I am good I can win the World Cup for my country," Dube said.

ALSO READ: Asia Cup 2023: Who Are The Top Run-scorers And Top Wicket-takers After SL Vs BAN Match?

"However, I need to do a lot of things for that. So my focus is on those things. The goal at the back of my mind is that I have to play for India. It is 100% a goal and I feel the direction in which I am going, it is getting closer."

Dube recently featured in India's T20I series against Ireland and is part of the Indian contingent for the upcoming Asian Games. He aims to deliver match-defining performances to strengthen his case for selection in the Men in Blue's squad for the T20 World Cup 2024.