"It's essential to recognize and value their hard work" - Shivam Dube on giving away his Man of the Match reward to Zimbabwean ground staff
Team India's Shivam Dube contributed significantly with both the bat and the ball in the side's recently concluded fifth T20I against Zimbabwe in Harare. The all-rounder scored 26 runs off 12 balls and recorded bowling figures of 4-0-25-2.
Dube was adjudged the Player of the Match as the Men in Blue completed a 42-run victory in the fifth fixture to complete a 4-1 series victory over the hosts. The 31-year-old won hearts with a wonderful gesture, donating his prize money to the ground staff at the Harare Sports Club.
Speaking about why he honored the ground staff, here's what Dube said during an interaction with IANS:
"The ground staff in Zimbabwe did an exceptional job, ensuring we had excellent playing conditions. Their hard work and dedication often go unnoticed, so I wanted to show my appreciation and gratitude for their efforts.
"By giving away my Man of the Match award money, I hoped to acknowledge their contribution and support them in a small way. It was a gesture to highlight the importance of every individual who makes the game possible, and I believe it’s essential to recognize and value their hard work."
It is worth mentioning that Shivam Dube was part of India's 2024 T20 World Cup-winning team. He featured in the playing XI in all the matches of the showpiece event, finishing with 133 runs across eight outings. He played a crucial 27-run knock in the final against South Africa.
Dube was initially not named in India's 15-member squad for the five-match T20I series against Zimbabwe. He replaced Nitish Kumar Reddy, who was ruled out due to injury.
"This experience has made me stronger" - Shivam Dube on being part of India's 2024 T20 World Cup squad
Shivam Dube received unwavering support from head coach Rahul Dravid and skipper Rohit Sharma during the 2024 T20 World Cup. He thanked the Indian think-tank for backing him.
He mentioned that his experience of playing the showpiece event has helped him immensely. Speaking about the ICC event, here's what Shivam Dube said in the same interview:
"It was both challenging and motivating. It was a test of my mental strength and perseverance. The unwavering support from our captain and coach was incredible. They constantly backed me, encouraging me to stay positive and keep working hard. Their faith in my abilities and their guidance helped me stay focused and believe in myself.
"This experience has made me stronger and more determined to improve and contribute to the team's success in the future."
India will now tour Sri Lanka for three T20Is and as many ODIs. The tour starts with the T20I series opener at Pallekele on July 27.