Cricketer’s Dash Home: Dube’s Early Morning Train Journey After World Cup Triumph
In a heartwarming display of familial devotion, Indian cricketer Shivam Dube recently embarked on an unusual journey home from Ahmedabad to Mumbai – via an early morning train – just hours after clinching the prestigious 2026 T20 World Cup trophy. The star all-rounder, a father of two and with his own father eagerly awaiting his return, confessed to experiencing significant anxiety about reuniting with his loved ones.
Dube’s decision to opt for the train was born out of necessity, as he found all available flights fully booked at short notice. This led him to secure three AC tickets, one for himself, one for his wife Anjum Khan, and another for a friend accompanying them.
Later, at a public event, Dube candidly shared the emotional pull that drove his hasty departure. “Ghar jaake mujhe apne bachche aur apne papa se milne ki kaafi anxiety ho rahi thi… isliye main subah-subah ghar chala aaya. Wait, hi nahi ho raha tha,” he revealed, translating to, “I was feeling anxious to meet my child and my father at home… that is why I left early in the morning. I just could not wait.”
He further elaborated on the practicalities of his decision. “There were no flights available, so I decided to take an early morning train from Ahmedabad to Mumbai. We could have gone by road, but the train was quicker,” he explained, highlighting the efficiency of his chosen mode of transport for this particular urgent journey.
A Strategic Boarding Operation
Dube’s train journey wasn’t just about speed; it was also a carefully orchestrated plan to evade the inevitable fanfare and attention that would accompany a World Cup winner. He admitted to devising a strategy with his wife to board the train discreetly.
“Everyone we spoke to-family and friends-was worried. They kept asking, ‘What if someone recognises you at the station or on the train.’ I told my wife I would wait in the car until five minutes before the train’s departure, then rush to board,” he recounted. This tactic aimed to minimise the chances of being spotted by fans or media personnel.
To further aid his incognito mission, Dube donned an all-black, full-sleeved t-shirt and a mask, blending in as much as possible with the early morning commuters. Despite his efforts at discretion, he had taken the precaution of informing the Mumbai police of his arrival, who, according to reports, were equally surprised to learn of his unconventional travel choice.
The journey wasn’t without its minor hiccups. At one point, Dube reportedly had a close call with a Ticket Examiner (TTE). However, his wife, Anjum Khan, is said to have cleverly managed the situation by subtly denying his presence, allowing the cricketer to continue his journey home unimpeded. This entire episode underscores the unique pressures faced by public figures and the creative lengths they sometimes go to for a semblance of personal time and privacy, even amidst moments of immense national celebration. The image of a World Cup hero blending into the everyday commute for the sake of family reunion struck a chord with many, showcasing a relatable human side to the celebrated athlete.
