'Bas itna hi confidence chahiye life mein' - Fans react as CSK power-hitter Shivam Dube targets spot in India’s ODI World Cup squad

Shivam Dube (Source: Twitter)

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) middle-order batter Shivam Dube had a tremendous outing in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023. He was one of the players that drew the attention of the cricketing world with his batting prowess for the five-time champions. Some fans and former cricketers had even suggested his name for inclusion in India's T20I squad.

All-rounder Dube did not get a chance to showcase his bowling skills in the recently concluded season but unleashed his power-hitting abilities to the fullest. He scored 418 runs in 16 matches at a massive strike rate of 158.33 and an average of 38. The left-hander was instrumental in the Chennai-based franchise's record fifth triumph.

However, in an interview with MyKhel, Dube expressed his desire to feature in the Indian squad for the upcoming ODI World Cup in India. The 30-year-old played 13 T20Is and 1 ODI for India, and his last international appearance was against New Zealand in 2020.

"Yes. Of course (eyeing a place in India's World Cup squad). Every player wants to play in a World Cup, more so when it's happening in India. But I can only focus on my own performances, the rest is up to the selectors," Dube said.

I am my only competition. I don't look at other players: Dube

If Dube is to make the squad, he will face competition from Hardik Pandya and Vijay Shankar for the all-rounder spot. However, the right-arm at medium pace bowler said that he does not look at other players and believes himself to be the solitary competition.

"No. I am my only competition. I don't look at other players. I train every day to become better than I was the day before," Dube added.

Meanwhile, Dube has not been included in the Indian squad for the West Indies tour, which includes two Tests, three ODIs and five T20Is. With the Asia Cup and World Cup fast approaching, the 50-over series against West Indies will be like a preparational match for Team India.

Here's how fans reacted to Shivam Dube's statement: 

Bas Itna Hi Confidence Chahiye Life Mein😐

— 🇮🇳ꪜ𝐢𝐧𝐨⁹⁶🚩 (@Vinod96s) July 6, 2023

Won't be surprised if selectors choose him based on IPL

— Varun Varma (@shavarun9) July 6, 2023

Phle apne foothwork per kam kr bhai 😂

— Mayank ✨️ (@ALoneboy448) July 6, 2023

Vijay shankar ki jagah iss world cup mai ye lega

— Anime_on (@Demonio___on) July 6, 2023

It's not ipl kid to play bilnd slogger role

— FOR G O A T ¹⁸ 🇮🇪 (@OGVK18) July 6, 2023

Everyone knows abt your short ball issues.. work on that champ n no one can stop youuu

— FPL Prat (@fpl_prat) July 6, 2023

Naah Bro!

Fast Bowlers also play in World Cup..😭😭

— The Happy Life (@Archaet0pteryx7) July 6, 2023

He was Second highest six hitter in this IPL . He should play at no 4 can be lethal against spinners in middle order

— DHONIverse 🇮🇳 (@91_wankhede) July 6, 2023