Dube will make an impact: Fleming

Chennai, April 30: Shivam Dube’s enhanced game understanding and completeness have impressed Chennai Super Kings head coach Stephen Fleming who is confident in the lefthanded allrounder’s ability to make an “impact” in the upcoming World Cup.

The 30-year-old, who is the second leading run-scorer for the defending champions in the ongoing IPL, made the cut to the 15-member Indian squad for the T20 global showpiece in the USA and West Indies beginning on June 1.

“He is a lot more complete in terms of what he is trying to do, understanding his game, and that comes from experience,” Fleming said ahead of their match against Punjab Kings.

“We have worked hard on areas he wasn’t so strong, but also continuing to develop his strength. So, if that form continues, he is going to be an impactful player for India (at the World Cup),” he added.

Dube has 350 runs in nine outings at a strike rate of 172.41, including three halfcenturies. “He has been fantastic. He has proven this year that there is a lot more to him than just playing spin (better),” said the former Kiwi skipper.

CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, who is their leading scorer with 447 runs including one century and three fifties, missed out in the squad. Asked if it was harsh to Gaikwad, Hussey said: “No... I understand the quality of players India have to try and select, (it) is very difficult. Ruturaj has done what he can, and he must be close,” he said.

“We hold him in the highest regard. I love the craft that he shows, and his (last) two performances have been quite majestic. It’s not just wham-bham, but he has displayed the mastery of batting. And the form that he is right now and the control that he has, it’s quite outstanding. It’s not now, but there will be another chance for him,” Fleming said. —