Shivam Dube’s Timely Entry as Impact Player Could Turn the Tide for CSK Against LSG

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In a game that hung precariously after a sudden top-order collapse, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) unleashed a game-changing card — Shivam Dube, as their Impact Player, subbing in for Matheesha Pathirana. The decision, taken at a delicate moment in the match, is now proving to be a masterstroke as CSK attempts to chase 167 against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2025.

The Match Context: CSK in Trouble Early

CSK began the chase with intent, but momentum slipped as three wickets fell quickly:

• Shaik Rasheed was the first to go at 4.5 overs (Score: 52/1)
• Rachin Ravindra, after a positive start, fell at 7.6 overs (Score: 74/2)
• Rahul Tripathi, promoted to No. 3, departed just two balls later at 8.5 overs (Score: 76/3)

What looked like a comfortable chase was suddenly wobbling — three wickets gone, middle overs approaching, and scoreboard pressure mounting.

The Impact Player Call: Dube In, Pathirana Out

Enter Shivam Dube, CSK’s designated power-hitter and spin destroyer. Subbed in at 8.5 overs, Dube replaced pacer Matheesha Pathirana, signalling CSK’s shift from bowling depth to batting firepower.

“Dube’s inclusion as an Impact Player at this moment shows CSK’s clarity in chasing targets — bring in muscle when the game needs momentum,” said commentator Kevin Pietersen on-air.

Building the Revival: Dube-Jadeja Partnership

From 76/3 to 96/4, Shivam Dube partnered with Ravindra Jadeja to stabilize the innings:

• Jadeja rotated strike smartly, while Dube took his time before opening up.
• The duo added 20 runs in 3.3 overs before Jadeja fell at 12.2 overs (Score: 96/4).
• Dube remained calm, absorbing pressure while identifying bowlers to target.

The hallmark of Dube’s batting? Calculated aggression and a willingness to dig in before exploding.

Now Batting with Vijay Shankar: A Deciding Stand

As the chase enters its final 7 overs, Dube is joined by Vijay Shankar. This partnership is critical, with:

• Dube anchoring and picking his bowlers
• Shankar offering the right-handed balance and boundary-hitting potential

If they add another 30–40 runs in the next 4 overs, CSK could cruise to victory.

Shivam Dube’s Role in the CSK Line-up

Dube’s value goes beyond being a brute force hitter. Here’s what makes him vital in run chases:

• Spin Basher: Excellent against leg-spinners and offies — LSG’s Bishnoi and Krunal Pandya will be targeted.
• Range Hitter: Capable of clearing long boundaries, especially straight and midwicket.
• Situational Awareness: Doesn’t panic under pressure; waits for the loose ball.

His evolving maturity in this season has turned him into a finisher-CSK can bank on, not just a floater.

Dube’s IPL 2025 Performance So Far

Can Dube Finish It Off?

CSK needs around 70 runs in the last 7 overs. With wickets in hand and dew setting in, this is where Shivam Dube’s game awareness, big-hitting ability, and timing can make the difference.

If Dube stays till the 18th over, expect him to unleash against the pacers and take CSK home.

What Experts Are Saying

• Harsha Bhogle:
  “Dube is the kind of player who can go quiet for 10 balls and then win the match in the next 5.”
• Tom Moody:
  “Smart impact substitution by CSK. Pathirana won’t be missed if Dube wins them the game.”
• Social Media Buzz:
  • “Dube’s calm is underrated. Match-winner loading?”
  • “Impact Player rule should be renamed Dube Rule for CSK.”

The Stage is Set

The stage in Lucknow couldn’t be more perfect. Shivam Dube, CSK’s Impact Player, is scripting a potentially game-turning knock. Whether he finishes it with sixes or stays the course with strike rotation, tonight could be remembered as the evening Dube turned Impact into Influence.

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