Asia Cup 2025: Shivam Dube downplays comparison with Hardik Pandya after career-best bowling performance in T20Is

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India’s all-rounder Shivam Dube has brushed aside comparisons with senior teammate Hardik Pandya, stressing mentorship and camaraderie instead of rivalry.

Speaking after his match-winning spell against the UAE in India’s Asia Cup 2025 opener, Dube called “Pandya like a brother” and acknowledged the guidance he receives from the experienced campaigner.

“Hardik is like a brother from whom I tend to learn a lot as he has way more experience both in IPL and international cricket compared to me,” Dube explained. He added that his only focus is on improving his game and drawing from Pandya’s vast experience rather than competing with him.

Dube made headlines in Dubai by delivering his best-ever bowling performance in T20Is, taking 3 wickets for just 4 runs in 2 overs. His brilliance dismantled the UAE batting lineup and restricted them to 57 runs, paving the way for India’s emphatic victory.

The decision to field both medium-pace all-rounders worked in India’s favour. While Pandya opened the attack and conceded 10 runs, Dube’s breakthroughs highlighted his growing value as a dual-role player, strengthening India’s batting depth and bowling options.

Dube credited bowling coach Morne Morkel for refining his skills since his comeback to the Indian team. “Morne has been working with me since the England series. He told me to bowl a line slightly outside off-stump, develop a slower ball, and tweak my run-up,” Dube revealed.

He also acknowledged head coach Gautam Gambhir for his strategic guidance. According to Dube, Gambhir and the captain have encouraged him to embrace his bowling role and expand his contributions beyond batting.

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While both Pandya and Dube are pace-bowling all-rounders, India’s setup has assigned them distinct responsibilities. Pandya continues to a frontline all-rounder, whereas Dube is steadily carving his niche, particularly after the IPL’s Impact Player rule has limited his bowling opportunities.

Dube reiterated that his focus remains on growth, stating that comparisons hold little value: “I never thought of comparisons. My only endeavour is to learn as much as I can and contribute to the team.”

With India eyeing another strong campaign in the Asia Cup, Dube’s form provides a significant boost. His ability to complement Pandya while also serving as a reliable bowling option adds depth to India’s squad, especially on challenging pitches in the UAE. The Suryakumar Yadav-led side will next take on arch-rivals Pakistan in their next game on Sunday, September 14.

Also READ: Here’s why Suryakumar Yadav withdrew run-out appeal against UAE’s Junaid Siddique in Asia Cup 2025 clash