Shivam Dube made the most of his chance with the ball in India's Asia Cup 2025 opener against the UAE.
Having been used sparingly as a bowler in recent years with just three overs across the last three IPL seasons and a single over during India's T20 World Cup win in 2024 - Dube showed improvement; returning with impressive figures of 3 for 4.
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His performance earned him the Impact Player of the Match award and fresh attention on his evolving role in the side.
Morne Morkel's guidance shaping Shivam Dube's bowling
Dube credited India's bowling coach Morne Morkel for helping refine his craft - pointing to small but significant tweaks that boosted his effectiveness.
"Definitely, today's start was very important. I have always prepared for four overs as an all-rounder. Whenever I get an opportunity to bowl three-four overs, I am ready for it," Dube told The Hindu.
"When I came for the England series (in January), he (Morkel) told me a few things. He suggested that I bowl more outside (off-stump) and told me a couple of things related to the slower ball. He also said a few things about my run-up. Because of those two-three things, my bowling is getting better. My pace is also improving," he added.
Dube's presence adds flexibility to India's middle order - giving the team six genuine bowling options alongside batting depth down to No. 8 with Axar Patel. That balance is crucial - especially in Jadeja's absence.
"Yes, I can hit in certain areas. But certain bowlers are there who come at me with short balls. So, during the IPL and even after it, I have been working on adding more shots," Dube said.
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India's depth and adaptability will likely hinge on players like Dube - whose dual contributions can tilt matches in their favour as the Asia Cup progresses.