In the latter stages of the opening match of IPL 2024 between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), former CSK captain MS Dhoni appeared impressed as Shivam Dube struck a six off RCB speedster Alzarri Joseph.
Initially, Dube faced difficulties against short deliveries. Taking advantage of the updated rule allowing two bouncers per over, RCB bowlers targeted the left-hander with short-pitched deliveries.
However, with eight runs required from 10 deliveries, Shivam Dube capitalized on a short delivery from Alzarri Joseph, sending the ball soaring into the stands towards the fine-leg area.
Renowned for his composed demeanor, MS Dhoni observed the six from the dressing room, subtly acknowledging the shot with a raised eyebrow as he moved away. MS Dhoni was pleased as Shivam Dube dispatched a short delivery over the boundary.
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Talk about living upto the Impact Player tag! 👏 👏
That was one fine knock from Shivam Dube in the chase! 👌 👌
Scorecard ▶️ https://t.co/4j6FaLF15Y#TATAIPL | #CSKvRCB | @IamShivamDube | @ChennaiIPL pic.twitter.com/207zz2Jz8l
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) March 22, 2024
Dhoni didn’t have to contribute with the bat as the Super Kings comfortably secured a six-wicket victory, allowing Ruturaj Gaikwad to start his captaincy stint with two vital points.
Shivam Dube successfully executed his role as a game-changing player
Chasing 174 wasn’t a significant challenge for Chennai, especially after Rachin Ravindra’s rapid 37 off 15 balls gave them a strong start. Despite RCB posing a threat by taking wickets at critical moments when CSK’s partnerships seemed promising, they managed to keep their momentum going.
However, Shivam Dube’s unbeaten 66-run partnership with Ravindra Jadeja for the fifth wicket guaranteed Chennai Super Kings’ victory without encountering additional obstacles.
Dube, entering as an Impact Player, scored 34* off 28 balls, reaffirming his reliability as a batsman and his potential as a flexible option this season. As for RCB, it’s a matter of returning to the drawing board and assessing what improvements could have been made in terms of execution.
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