Shivam Dube has officially been ruled out of the upcoming three-match T20I series against Bangladesh due to a back injury, as confirmed by the BCCI just before the first T20I in Gwalior. The board’s statement explained, “All-rounder Shivam Dube is ruled out of the three-match T20I series owing to a back injury.”
In response to Dube’s absence, the BCCI has named young Mumbai Indians batter Tilak Varma as his replacement. Tilak is expected to join the team ahead of the first match in Gwalior on Sunday morning.
Dube has participated in 33 T20Is for India, amassing 448 runs and claiming 11 wickets. Unfortunately, his back injury resurfaced while he was training in Mumbai prior to the series against Bangladesh. Although he traveled to Gwalior, the discomfort persisted, affecting his ability to train effectively.
The 21-year-old Tilak Varma has played 16 T20Is for India, scoring 336 runs and taking two wickets with his slow bowling. He was previously sidelined due to injury, which resulted in him not being selected for the T20Is against Zimbabwe or Sri Lanka. This series against Bangladesh presents an opportunity for Tilak to showcase his skills on the international stage.
As the team prepares for the series, the loss of Dube is a notable blow, given his experience and contributions. Tilak’s inclusion offers a chance for fresh talent, and his performance will be closely watched as he steps into the limelight. With the first T20I just around the corner, both the team and fans will be eager to see how the new lineup adapts and performs in the absence of Dube.
