The Indian team recently pipped Australia and New Zealand at their own backyard to take the positives heading into the 2019 world cup. India were clinical against the Kiwis, clinching the series 4-1, while the series against Australia 2-1. The men in blue have all their basis covered with the inclusion of Hardik Pandya in the squad.
The number four slot may be acquired by Ambati Rayudu or hard hitting Rishabh Pant but the most tricky question was of Mahendra Singh Dhoni. The veteran batsman had an ordinary 2018 with the bat which raised few eyebrows over his selection in the world cup. The rise of Rishabh Pant was another reason why some cricket experts preferred Pant over Dhoni in the world cup squad.
However, the Ranchi lad shut his critics by notching three back to back half ton in the ODI series against Australia to bag the man of the series award. He continued his run of form in New Zealand which is a happening sign for India.
In the meantime, former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif said that Dhoni is a pivotal part of the team heading into the world cup.
“Dhoni has been the key player in this side. He is not the captain, but Virat Kohli trusts Dhoni to help him with decisions in crucial situations. The team revolves around Dhoni, the young bowlers go to Dhoni. The captain, when he is in trouble, he goes to Dhoni.
“The current form of Dhoni has been brilliant – the way he played in Australia was great. With Kohli, Dhoni and other players in form, we have a great chance to win the World Cup,” Kaif was quoted as saying in an exclusive interview with Hindustan Times.
MS Dhoni will next feature in the T20 series against Australia that starts on 24th February in Visakhapatnam.
