For most of his career, Dube was seen as a fill‑in option, used sparingly to change rhythm. But in recent times, he has evolved into more than that, delivering wickets at crucial junctures. Since early last year, he has taken 20 wickets in 28 T20Is at an average of 19.90. More importantly, he has dismissed dangerous batters like Tim David, Daryl Mitchell, Dewald Brevis, Mitchell Marsh, and Phil Salt
This ability to remove key opposition players enhanced his reputation as a white‑ball bowler. His current slump, therefore, is not just the loss of a part‑time option but of a bowler who had become a genuine threat. India’s inability to rely on him now magnifies the concern.