It’s that time again—India vs Pakistan in a final. No matter how many times these two teams get together, it doesn’t lose its pizzazz. This Asia Cup 2025 final, being played in Dubai, is already on the list of toughest matches of the year, and every little team call is scrutinized as well. One of the hottest debates is about whether Shivam Dube should be in the playing XI for the finals. Dube hasn’t had much of a chance to showcase his batting ability in this tournament, but his impression with the ball in his hand and the potential of his bat make it difficult to overlook him.
Stick to the Original Game Plan, Don’t Panic
Recency bias is a dangerous thing in cricket. Arshdeep Singh’s death-over brilliance against Sri Lanka has made many fans demand his inclusion for the final, but it’s worth remembering why India backed Shivam Dube in the first place. The team has used him in all the high-stakes matches so far, and the balance has worked out just fine.
Dube provides a safety net in both departments—he can bowl crucial overs and give India batting depth. One nervy finish against Sri Lanka doesn’t mean India should rip up their strategy on the eve of a final. In fact, changing combinations this late could end up hurting team balance more than helping.
India’s Middle Order Needs Reinforcement
Let’s be honest—India may be unbeaten in the Asia Cup, but the middle order has looked fragile. Abhishek Sharma has carried the bulk of the scoring load, and the team cannot keep relying on one batter to do all the heavy lifting. Sanju Samson is still adjusting to his role, Suryakumar Yadav is going through a nightmare patch, and even seasoned players like Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel haven’t been convincing in the death overs.
That’s exactly why someone like Shivam Dube becomes vital. His mere presence gives India batting depth, allowing the top order to play with freedom, knowing there’s firepower left in the shed. We’ve seen how dangerous he can be against spin and medium pace when he connects, and Pakistan’s bowling attack is exactly the kind where one counterattacking cameo could swing momentum.
The “X-Factor” Against Pakistan’s Spinners
If there’s one area India has struggled against Pakistan recently, it’s spin. Abrar Ahmed has practically toyed with the Indian middle order in their last two meetings, and nobody apart from Abhishek Sharma has really figured him out. This is where Dube could be a game-changer.
A left-hander with the ability to clear boundaries against spinners is exactly what India needs in the middle overs. Even if his numbers in this Asia Cup aren’t staggering, his reputation as a spin-hitter forces captains to change their plans. Tilak Varma and Axar Patel have been serviceable, but neither has looked truly comfortable taking on Pakistan’s mystery options. Dube, with his long reach and six-hitting ability, offers something different—something unpredictable. And in finals, that unpredictability can be priceless.
FAQs
- Why is Shivam Dube being considered for India’s final XI?
Dube provides crucial batting depth and can also bowl key overs, giving India balance in the final.
- Has Dube performed well in the Asia Cup 2025 so far?
While his batting opportunities have been limited, he has taken five wickets and delivered impactful spells.
- Why not play Arshdeep Singh instead of Dube?
Arshdeep’s inclusion strengthens bowling, but India’s middle order needs reinforcement, which Dube provides.
Disclaimer: This blog post reflects the author’s personal insights and analysis. Readers are encouraged to consider the perspectives shared and draw their own conclusions.
Step into the world of cricket with JeetBuzz News—where expert opinions, trending Blogs, and behind-the-scenes insights meet all your favorite topics. Stay informed, stay entertained, and never miss the stories shaping the cricketing world—only on JeetBuzz News!
