Dube found it difficult to deal with the two-paced tracks at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, likening the experience to playing a first-class Ranji Trophy match.
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“I was struggling with my form and focusing on my process,” Dube was quoted as saying by PTI.
“But here, there was no pressure. All the support staff and coaches backed me and told me, ‘It’s difficult, but you have the ability to hit sixes, so apply it.’ I’ve never doubted myself for what I’ve done in the past. I just think that these conditions do not demand what I’ve done at CSK. These conditions require a different approach, so I was batting differently today,” he added.
Despite his initial struggles, culminating in low scores against Ireland and Pakistan, Dube managed a crucial knock of 31 runs off 35 balls in India’s victory over the USA, securing their place in the Super Eight stage.
Despite his personal struggles, Dube remained optimistic about the team’s prospects and expressed unwavering confidence in teammate Virat Kohli‘s ability to regain his form.
“There is nothing I can say about Virat Kohli because I’m not Virat Kohli. His bad patch means he got out cheaply a couple of times but will come back scoring hundreds in the next three matches. We all know his game and how he plays,” added Dube.
While acknowledging his relief at finding some form, Dube recognized the need for continued improvement to justify his selection over reserve player Rinku Singh.
“It felt like (playing) Ranji Trophy. I don’t think in white ball. It’s not easy to come here and start hitting from ball one; you have to take your time. Obviously, I miss six-hitting at CSK and in India…it’s difficult to bat here in these conditions and in the nets as well. It is definitely better to bowl here, I would have bowled more but was hit for a six and didn’t get opportunity,” admitted the all-rounder.