India’s Shivam Dube Shines with Key Bowling Role in Asia Cup Win over UAE

Shivam Dube played a pivotal role in India's dominant nine-wicket victory over the UAE in the Asia Cup 2025, delivering career-best bowling figures of 3/4 in two overs that helped bowl out the UAE for just 57 runs. Dube credited Indian bowling coach Morne Morkel for his improvement, highlighting specific tactical advice such as bowling a line slightly outside the off-stump, developing a slower delivery, and adjustments to his run-up. This guidance, combined with extensive fitness and skill work over the past two months, has enabled Dube to expand his role beyond primarily being a power-hitter, aspiring to be a full-fledged all-rounder for India. Dube downplayed comparisons with established all-rounder Hardik Pandya, calling him a brother and emphasizing his focus on learning from Pandya's experience. Morkel emphasized the importance of using multi-skilled players like Dube who can bowl multiple overs and contribute with the bat, providing India with depth and flexibility in both departments. The team’s strategy reflects a balance between spin and pace bowling options, with the coaching staff assessing pitch conditions to optimize their lineup.