Team India recently won the historic T20 World Cup and following the win, star India all-rounder Shivam Dube took an unconventional path to return home from Ahmedabad. While Indian cricketers often travel via charter planes or booked flights, Dube needed to book third AC train tickets for his family to return to Mumbai as all flights from Ahmedabad to Mumbai were fully booked.
Talking to The Indian Express, he shared that he had tried to book flights for himself and his family initially, but no flights were available. While travelling by road was an option, he went with the trains because it offered a faster journey.
“There have been no flights available, so I made a decision to take an early morning train from Ahmedabad to Mumbai. We could have passed by road, however the train was quicker,” Dube added. “Everyone we spoke to-family and friends-was fearful. They kept asking, ‘What if someone recognises you on the station or on the train?’”
Nonetheless, to take care of his anonymity, Shivam Dube wore a cap, a mask, and a long-sleeved T-shirt as well. He also strategically picked up a 5:10 am departure, hoping the group can be less on the platform.
“I told my wife I might wait within the automotive until five minutes before the train’s departure, then rush to board,” he added.
Nonetheless, a police officer was accompanied to administer if any potential chaos identified. Fortunately, the journey was smooth.
“In the course of the night, I got down from my berth to make use of the washroom, and nobody recognised me. The trip was smooth, though I used to be fearful about getting off at Borivali in broad daylight, as I knew I couldn’t escape attention there.”
Meanwhile, Dube took the highest berth, attempting to hide himself from everyone. Nonetheless, somewhat little bit of drama took place when the ticket checker got here. “Shivam Dube? Woh kaun hai, cricketer?” Shivam Dube’s wife Anjum quickly intervened to said: “No, no. Woh kahan se aayega (where will he come from)?” The TC moved to the following passanger then as well.
Authorities, who initially expected him to travel by flights, were surprised by his alternative of transport as well. Nonetheless, police escort provided for his arrival and his return was handled efficiently.
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