Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are gearing up for a crucial IPL season as it might be the last for their captain, MS Dhoni. However, the team has faced an early setback with one of their star players, Shivam Dube, sustaining an injury. Dube, who played a pivotal role in CSK’s title-winning campaign last year, has been ruled out of the Ranji Trophy quarterfinal match between Mumbai and Baroda due to a side strain.
Dube is expected to be out from the enitre domestic tournament because of the injury
This injury comes at a crucial time as Mumbai is set to face Baroda on February 23, and Dube’s absence is a significant blow to the team. The left-handed batter has been in exceptional form this Ranji season, amassing 407 runs at an impressive average of 67.83, and also contributing with 12 wickets. Unfortunately, the side strain injury is expected to keep him out for the entire domestic tournament.
Typically, a side strain requires a recovery period of six to seven weeks. If Dube’s recovery takes longer than anticipated, there is a possibility that he might miss a portion of the upcoming IPL 2024 season, posing a challenge for the Chennai Super Kings. His absence could be a cause for concern, especially considering his instrumental role in their previous triumph, where he scored 418 runs with three half-centuries.
Apart from impacting CSK’s IPL campaign, Dube’s untimely injury has cast a shadow over his participation in the T20 World Cup. The batter showcased his prowess in the T20I series against Afghanistan, scoring 124 runs, including two unbeaten fifties. While there is optimism that Dube might return and be fit by the first week of April, any delay in his recovery could lead to CSK needing a replacement.
Dube’s absence could be felt not only in IPL but also in T20 World Cup
The 30-year-old’s absence could be felt not only in the IPL but also in the T20 World Cup, making his recovery timeline crucial for both CSK and the Indian cricket team. As fans anxiously await updates on Dube’s rehabilitation, the focus remains on his fitness, hoping he makes a swift recovery and returns to the field, not only for the Chennai Super Kings but also for potential inclusion in the T20 World Cup squad.
