Renowned cricket commentator Aakash Chopra has recommended the inclusion of both Shivam Dube and Hardik Pandya in India’s squad for the upcoming 2024 T20 World Cup. Despite Hardik Pandya missing the recent T20I series against Afghanistan due to an ankle injury, Chopra emphasized the value of having both power-hitters in the squad.
Shivam Dube emerged as the top run-scorer in the T20I series against Afghanistan, amassing 124 runs and showcasing his aggressive batting style. Despite an economy rate of 10.00 while bowling, Dube’s impactful performances have earned him consideration for the T20 World Cup squad.
Watch- Aakash Chopra’s critical analysis on Shivam Dube & Hardik Pandya
In a video shared on his YouTube channel, Chopra expressed his admiration for Dube’s power-hitting abilities, likening him to former Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh. He urged India to keep both Dube and Hardik Pandya in the squad, acknowledging the strength they bring to the team.
“Shivam Ati Sundaram – his power is talking loudly. I felt he was sent slightly early in the third match. You could have sent either Sanju Samson or Rinku Singh ahead of him because he is not a grafter; he is an attacker. He reminds me of Yuvi (Yuvraj Singh). So you need to keep him slightly down the order,” said Aakash Chopra.
Addressing the suggestion of leaving Hardik Pandya out, Chopra firmly stated,
“Some people have even said to leave Hardik and pick Dube. I am saying keep both. Shivam Dube is a real contender based on these three matches. If he does well in the IPL, it will be the icing on the cake,”
Chopra emphasized the importance of power-hitters in T20 cricket, especially considering the likely spinner-friendly pitches in the Caribbean and the United States, where the T20 World Cup is scheduled to take place.
Regarding the wicketkeeper-batsman position, Chopra noted the uncertainty in India’s selection. With Jitesh Sharma and Sanju Samson failing to capitalize on their opportunities against Afghanistan, Chopra highlighted the lack of a definitive answer regarding India’s preferred wicketkeeper for the T20 World Cup. The race, according to Chopra, has multiple contenders, leaving the final decision uncertain.