The controversy surrounding the concussion substitute during the fourth T20I between India and England extended into the subsequent match. Former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa suggested that the team may have taken advantage of a loophole in the International Cricket Council's (ICC) regulations, humorously noting that Shivam Dube likely silenced some of his most vocal critics by demonstrating his bowling prowess in the fifth T20.

Kevin Pietersen, the former England captain, specifically called for match referee Javagal Srinath to acknowledge an error in permitting Rana to replace Dube, as the pacer claimed three wickets and played a crucial role in India's unexpected victory. Pietersen expressed a desire to see Dube bowl in the fifth T20I. Ultimately, Dube bowled two overs, taking a wicket with his very first delivery, which was Phil Salt, the only England batsman to score significantly that evening.

Uthappa commented on his YouTube channel, “While it was a contentious issue and Kevin Pietersen was eager to see Dube bowl, he effectively silenced the critics with a wicket on his first ball. Nonetheless, the situation remains contentious, and there must be clear guidelines regarding the law, which the ICC should address.”

‘Dube is a proper all-rounder’

Uthappa previously remarked that India may have taken advantage of a loophole, but he considers Dube to be a genuine all-rounder. "Regarding the concussion substitute, I believe there was a loophole that Team India capitalized on. Naturally, this was sanctioned by the match referee. In the last match, Shivam Dube also claimed two wickets. He is a true all-rounder, even though he bowls 20-25 km/h slower than Harshit; nonetheless, he remains a fairly effective bowler," he stated.

Dube was named player of the match in the fourth T20I after scoring 53 runs off 34 deliveries. He formed an impressive partnership of 87 runs in just 45 balls with fellow fast-bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who also contributed 53 runs from 30 balls. This partnership rescued India from a precarious position, having been reduced to 12/3 in the second over and 79/5 in the 11th. Ultimately, they managed to set a total of 181/9.

England, however, began their chase strongly, with Ben Duckett and Salt establishing an opening partnership of 62 runs. In a fluctuating chase, England appeared to be in control at various stages, only to falter due to some questionable shot selection and tactical decisions, or as a result of exceptional performances from the Indian spinners. England ultimately lost the match by 15 runs, allowing India to secure a series victory. They further asserted their dominance by defeating England by 150 runs in the fifth T20I.

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