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Smart Intent: How MS Dhoni’s Simple Advice Transformed Shivam Dube’s Game
India’s middle-order powerhouse Shivam Dube has finally cracked the code to his biggest career hurdle: the short-pitched delivery. Shivam Dube powered India to victory against the Netherlands with an impressive 66 off just 31 balls. He attributed this career-defining performance to a mental breakthrough inspired by MS Dhoni. The transformation marks a critical turning point for India's tactical depth as they head into the Super 8 stage.
The ‘Mahi Way’: Turning a Weakness Into a Strength
Opponents used to bowl short to get Shivam Dube out, and he often looked uncomfortable against fast bouncers. Now, his batting form for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and India looks much better. He does not feel stuck when facing fast bowlers anymore.
The fix came from a simple tip from MS Dhoni. Dube used to think he had to hit every short ball for a six, but Dhoni told him to stay calm and focus on scoring runs easily.
"Mahi bhai had told me that it is not necessary that you have to hit a six on that ball; you can hit a boundary or take a single, so that thing was always in my mind when I came in at the start," Dube said in a post-match interview as reported by Republic World.
How Does MS Dhoni’s Guidance Impact India's T20 World Cup 2026 Strategy?
Dube’s improvement changes how India builds their team. He used to be seen as a player who only hit spin bowling. He can now handle fast bowlers, which makes India’s middle order much stronger.
Dube stopped trying to over-attack every ball. In the 2026 World Cup, India can now use Dube as a flexible power hitter. He can survive the fast bowling from teams like South Africa.
Apart from this, he also helps the team by bowling medium-pace overs. This gives the captain more options during the game. India no longer has to hide him until the spinners start bowling.
Overall, MS Dhoni is still helping Indian cricket through his mentorship. Shivam Dube is the best example of this impact. He is no longer just a local star for CSK but a vital player for the national team. His new ‘smart’ style of play could be the reason India wins the trophy.