Ravichandran Ashwin has shared his views on Chennai Super Kings’ batting order in IPL 2026. His comments have started a discussion about Shivam Dube and whether he should be used as a finisher.
Ashwin’s View on Dube as a Finisher
Ashwin said that Shivam Dube is not a natural finisher right now. He believes Dube has good ability but does not yet have enough experience to consistently finish matches in the final overs.
| Point | Ashwin’s View |
|---|---|
| Role | Not a natural finisher |
| Strength | Strong hitter |
| Limitation | Lack of finishing experience |
Ashwin added that Dube has often played as a support batter rather than a main finisher.
Shivam Dube’s Current Form
Dube has been in decent form this season.
| Player | Runs | Matches | Average | Strike Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shivam Dube | 123 | 6 | 41.00 | 150.00 |
In the last match against Sunrisers Hyderabad, he scored 21 runs off 16 balls.
These numbers show that Dube is batting well, which makes his role in the team even more important.
Suggestion: Use Dube and Brevis Earlier
Ashwin suggested that CSK should send Dube and Dewald Brevis earlier in the batting order.
| Strategy | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Bat earlier | More time to score |
| Avoid finishing pressure | Better performance |
| Build innings | Stronger totals |
He believes Dube can contribute more if he gets more balls to face instead of coming in late.
Also See : Mitchell Starc Cleared for IPL 2026: Big Boost for Delhi Capitals, Joining Update
Possible Team Changes
Ashwin also talked about possible changes in the playing XI.
| Situation | Suggested Change |
|---|---|
| Ayush Mhatre injured | Urvil Patel can replace |
| If Dhoni plays | Batting order reshuffle |
| Pitch condition | Spencer Johnson may replace Matthew Short |
He also suggested using Akeal Hosein aggressively, especially in the powerplay.
Bowling Strategy Ideas
| Player | Suggested Role |
|---|---|
| Akeal Hosein | Use like a fast bowler in powerplay |
| Spencer Johnson | Extra pace option |
| Mukesh Choudhary | May be rested |
Ashwin feels these changes can help CSK adjust better to conditions at Wankhede.
Big Match Focus: MI vs CSK
CSK will face Mumbai Indians at Wankhede Stadium.
The key question will be how CSK uses their batters.
- Will Dube be used as a finisher
- Or will he be promoted in the batting order
This decision could have a big impact on the match.
Final Update
Ashwin’s comments have highlighted an important issue in CSK’s strategy. Shivam Dube is in good form, but his role needs to be clear.
If CSK uses him in the right position, he can make a bigger impact in IPL 2026.
The upcoming match will show whether the team makes any changes based on these suggestions.
