In the high-octane world of international cricket, World Cup winners are usually greeted with private jets, red carpets, and high-security motorcases. However, following India’s historic T20 World Cup 2026 triumph at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, star all-rounder Shivam Dube proved that even national heroes sometimes have to rely on the Indian Railways to get home. In a recently surfaced interview with Sambhavna Seth, Dube and his wife, Anjum Khan, shared a hilarious, human account of their undercover journey from Ahmedabad to Mumbai.
Shivam Dube recounts a light-hearted train journey experience after lifting T20 World Cup 2026
With flights back to the city entirely sold out due to the post-final rush, Dube found himself in a relatable dilemma: he was desperate to get home but had no way to fly. Opting for practicality over prestige, the power-hitter booked a ticket on the Sayajigunj Express. To avoid the inevitable mob of ecstatic fans, Dube resorted to some classic cloak and dagger tactics, sneaking onto the platform just as the train pulled in and immediately scrambling into the upper berth of a 3-tier AC coach.
The highlights of the trip involved a close call with a suspicious Ticket Collector (TC). When the TC questioned if the man hidden in the blankets was indeed the World Cup winner, Dube didn’t skip a beat, replying in Hindi: “Woh thodi na aayega. Aap kya baat kar rahe ho” (Why would he be here? What are you even saying?). The ruse was further aided by a fellow passenger who unknowingly defended Dube’s anonymity, claiming the cricketer would surely be busy partying rather than sitting in a third-class compartment.
Here’s the video:
Shivam Dube and his wife sharing their train journey experience after winning the T20 World Cup 2026 😆
A must watch video 👌🏻 pic.twitter.com/KsEPPyuBlU
— Fan Account Richard Kettlebourogh (@RichKettle07) March 18, 2026
Also WATCH: Shivam Dube presents the T20 World Cup medal to his father in a heartfelt moment
Dube’s impactful finisher role in India’s 2026 campaign
While the train journey was light-hearted, Dube’s performance throughout the T20 World Cup 2026 was anything but casual. Transitioning from a promising talent to a cold-blooded finisher, Dube was the X-factor that allowed India to dominate the middle and death overs. His ability to dismantle spin a hallmark of his game proved vital on the varying pitches of the tournament, providing the necessary bridge between the top-order anchors and the lower-order hitters.
In the final against a formidable bowling attack, Dube’s composure was the difference-maker. His knack for clearing the ropes with minimal effort ensured that India maintained a high strike rate even during the pressure-cooker moments of the knockout stages. Beyond his batting, his utility as a medium-pacer gave the captain crucial flexibility, often breaking partnerships just when the opposition looked threatening.
Upon reaching Mumbai, the stealth mission finally required professional backup. To navigate the growing crowds at the station, Dube sought assistance from the local police, who provided a discreet escort to ensure the World Cup hero made it home safely. It was a fittingly chaotic end to a whirlwind 24 hours, going from the loudest stadium in the world to a quiet upper berth, and finally, back to the arms of a celebrating city.
