Shivam Dube Backs Suryakumar Yadav, Calls Him 'Match-Winner' Ahead of World Cup

India all-rounder Shivam Dube has thrown his full support behind out-of-form T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav, insisting the star batter remains a match-winner ahead of the World Cup. Suryakumar has not scored a T20I fifty since October 2024, and with the global tournament less than two months away, pressure is mounting. But Dube dismissed concerns, saying form cannot define a player of SKY’s calibre. “He’s the kind of player who can win you five out of five matches on his own," Dube said on the eve of the fourth T20I against South Africa in Lucknow. “If he’s not scoring right now, it doesn’t mean he’s not a good player." Dube stressed that Suryakumar’s impact goes far beyond numbers. “He’s one of the best. No one can do what he does. Yes, runs have dried up, but his form will return at the right time. He can explode at any moment," he added. The 32-year-old also highlighted Suryakumar’s mindset, calling him a fighter and a true 360-degree batter. “Whether he scores or not, he’s the same guy. He always wants to do something for the team. He’s innovative and always a threat." Dube also backed vice-captain Shubman Gill, who is going through a lean phase of his own in T20Is. “Even when his form dips, his numbers are still very good. He’s been performing for India for many years," Dube said, calling Gill one of the country’s best batters. Looking ahead to the home World Cup, Dube said India’s squad appears largely settled. “I don’t think much will change. This is one of the best teams we’ve had," he said, adding that final calls rest with the captain, coach and selectors. On a personal note, Dube revealed he has focused heavily on fitness in the off-season. Swipe Left For Next Video “I worked a lot on my fitness and have had many conversations with Morne Morkel. That’s helped me a lot," he said.