India's selection strategy has come under scrutiny after Shivam Dube failed to feature in a single match of the recently concluded five-match T20I series against New Zealand.

Despite India taking an fascinating 3-0 lead before losing the final two games, the team management did not offer opportunities to several members of the squad, including the experienced all-rounder.

India eventually clinched the series 3-2, but the decision to keep Dube on the bench throughout the tour has raised questions about the team's rotation policy and selection priorities.

Kuldeep Yadav, Auqib Nabi and Kumar Kushagra were also among the players who did not get a single appearance in the series. Former India batter Aakash Chopra has now questioned the management's decision to overlook Dube.

The biggest talking point was India's decision not to experiment with their playing combination after securing a 3-0 lead. With the series already decided, the final two matches provided an opportunity to test the bench strength and assess players who could become important options in upcoming tournaments.

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However, India largely continued with their preferred combination, with Nitish Kumar Reddy retaining his place as the pace-bowling all-rounder ahead of Dube.

Aakash Chopra Questions India's Decision To Overlook Shivam Dube

Chopra believes Dube still has an important role to play in India's T20I setup, particularly because of his ability to finish matches under pressure. While acknowledging Nitish Kumar Reddy's contributions, the former India opener highlighted the difference between the two all-rounders.

"Dube played the Asian Games final and scored runs, and he has also played ODI cricket against England. You cannot just say that he is no longer needed. I will be surprised if he is absolutely dislodged. Yes, Nitish Kumar Reddy has done a job. He is a better bowler, but Shivam Dube is a better finisher," Chopra said, speaking to ESPNcricinfo.

He further explained that the selection should depend on the specific requirements of the team rather than simply comparing their bowling abilities.

"What you want from a player is something that might eventually decide your selection. But for that, we must also understand the thought process. Nitish will give you the overs, but Dube will finish games. World Cup finals, Asian Games, Asia Cup-those are the places where Shivam Dube has come into his own. I am in no hurry to write him off," Chopra asserted.

Nitish Reddy's Emergence Creates Competition

Nitish's emergence as a pace-bowling all-rounder has put Dube's position under threat in the playing XI. The 22-year-old scored 71 runs in four innings at a strike rate of 165.12 and also picked up four wickets during the five-match series.

His ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him a useful option, especially with Hardik Pandya's fitness and workload remaining important considerations for India's team management.

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Meanwhile, Dube has built a reputation for delivering in high-pressure matches. His contributions in the 2024 T20 World Cup final, 2025 Asia Cup final and 2026 Asian Games final underline his finishing abilities. He also scored an unbeaten 26 off eight balls in the 2026 T20 World Cup final against New Zealand.

India also experimented with Vaibhav Sooryavanshi after Ishan Kishan suffered a right adductor strain during the series opener. Sooryavanshi's inclusion was primarily injury-driven, while Kishan's subsequent return brought another change to the combination.