Why Shivam Dube traveled home by train after T20 WC
What's the story
All-rounder Shivam Dube, who was part of India's victorious squad in the recent ICC T20 World Cup, revealed that he traveled back to Mumbai from Ahmedabad by train. The journey was necessitated as all flights were fully booked. Dube wanted to reach home as soon as possible to be with his four-year-old son Aayan and two-year-old daughter Mehwish.
Travel details
'There was no flight available'
Speaking to The Indian Express, Dube explained his decision to take a train instead of other modes of transport. He said, "There was no flight available, so I decided to take a train from Ahmedabad early in the morning to Mumbai. We could have gone by road but the train was faster." He was accompanied by his wife, Anjum, and a friend on this journey.
Public scrutiny
Dube's concerns about unwanted attention
Dube was well aware that traveling on a regular train soon after winning the T20 World Cup could attract unwanted attention. He said, "Everyone we spoke to was worried, family and friends. What if someone recognized me at the station or inside the train?" To avoid this, he disguised himself in a cap, mask, and full-sleeved T-shirt for the journey.
Disguise tactics
How did the journey go?
Dube initially planned to reach the platform early. However, due to the post-World Cup celebrations in Ahmedabad, he stayed inside the car for as long as possible. "So I told my wife that I will wait in the car till five minutes before the train's departure. After that, I will rush to board the train," Dube said. Once on board, Dube headed straight for the top berth and stayed there for most of the journey.
Safe passage
Dube gets police escort
Dube was worried about getting off at Borivali in broad daylight. To avoid a crowd waiting at the station, he contacted the police before his train reached Mumbai. "They thought I was landing at the airport but were surprised when I told them that I was traveling by train. I was provided a police escort so things were easy and the exit was smooth," he added.
Performance
Dube's all-round performance in T20 WC 2026
Dube played a major role in India's record T20 World Cup title defense. His contributions might not have set records but were impactful. He made 235 runs at an average of 39.16 and a strike rate of 169.06. This includes a blistering 66 off just 31 balls against the Netherlands. Having bowled just 10.2 overs, he also claimed five wickets, though his economy was 14.12.