When Chennai Super Kings picked up India all-rounder for R4cr on Day Two of the IPL auction in Bangalore on Sunday, it capped a fine week for the Mumbai cricketer.
On Wednesday, Dube, 28, became a father for the first time, as son, Ayaan, was born at a city hospital. He believes the little one has brought him good fortune.
Belief in destiny
“I believe in destiny and this is all my baby’s good luck rubbing off on me. After marriage, you get good luck from your wife and once you are a parent, it’s all about your child,” Dube, who has played for teams like Royal Challengers Bangalore and Rajasthan Royals, told mid-day from Ahmedabad on Sunday.
Dube is also most excited about getting the opportunity to play under former India captain MS Dhoni, who has led Chennai Super Kings successfully over the years. “I’m looking forward to play under Dhoni and do well at CSK. I’ve always wanted to play under a captain like MS and I’m glad that my dream has been fulfilled today,” added Dube, who is currently in a bio-bubble with the Prithvi Shaw-led Mumbai Ranji Trophy team. He hardly got a day to spend with Ayaan before he left (on February 10) for his Ranji engagements.
The Dhoni factor
When asked what are the qualities he looks forward to learning from Dhoni, Dube said: “MS is known for his calm and confident attitude and leadership qualities. He is a good mentor too and always guides new players to help them give their best. I want to learn how to perform in pressure situations from him. I am ready to bat at any position that MS wants, even as an opener.”
Focus on Ranji Trophy
Dube, a left-handed batsman and right-arm medium pacer, has represented the country in 13 T20Is and one ODI. He has played 24 IPL matches, scoring 399 and claiming four wickets. The Ranji Trophy and IPL could not have come at a better time for Dube who is eyeing a return to Team India. Mumbai take on defending champions Saurashtra in their Ranji opener from February 17. “Our first target is to win this match [against Saurashtra]. We will first look at qualifying for the knockout phase and then, hopefully go for the title again. Mumbai [41-time Ranji champs] last won the title in 2016, so the Ranji crown is our ultimate goal. I hope I can perform well and eventually make it back to the Indian team.”
