Of late, former Indian National Cricket Team skipper MS Dhoni has faced criticism for his poor outing in the limited-overs cricket. He redeemed himself by making a strong return in the One-day International (ODI) cricket while playing a remarkable role in 50-over series in Australia. And on this, the national team chief coach Ravi Shastri believes Dhoni has been exceptional in his approach.
The 56-year-old Shastri has further backed Dhoni while reiterating those who criticise Dhoni knew nothing about cricket, in particular.
“Nobody is good enough to criticise MS Dhoni. If you talk about him, do you even know anything about cricket?” Shastri told Cricbuzz.
It’s pertinent to point out that Dhoni drew flak following his slow-show with the bat in Sydney ODI. However, as many thought his abilities to finish the games has waned, he made a spectacular return by smashing three half-centuries on the trot, before missing fourth by two runs against New Zealand.
In 2018, Dhoni batted at number five spot, but he couldn’t deliver according to the expectations, but 2019 started off on a brilliant note. His promotion in the batting order saw him making most of his experience as his average in ODIs read well over 50.
The 37-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman amassed 191 runs while remaining unbeaten across three innings in series Down Under.
Dhoni had served as an astute thinker for Team India while taking the Test team to the pinnacle when he was at the helm. The remarkable professional has clinched major three ICC Trophies to his name during his leadership days.
Shastri sees Dhoni among Indian veterans:
Also, Shastri didn’t shy away from saying that Dhoni is well in the league of Kapil Dev, Sunil Gavaskar and legendary Sachin Tendulkar.
Interestingly, Shastri asserted such players to make an appearance once in three to four decades.
“Dhoni is like Sachin Tendulkar, Kapil Dev and Sunil Gavaskar. These guys come once in 30-40 years. He is an ornament to the game. He has been the captain of a number one Test team. And has two World Cups to his name,” Shastri stated.
Also, Shastri also seemed to be irked with Dhoni’s detractors. He reiterated the teams wouldn’t get such players with a wealth of experience all of a sudden. He suggested the critics learn about the game before taking on a player of Mahi’s calibre.
“I think people should learn a thing or two about cricket before they start talking about Dhoni. You don’t get a guy (of his experience and ability) overnight,” Shastri concluded.
As of now, Ranchi star is partaking in the ongoing three-match Twenty20 International (T20) series. India lost the opener by 80 runs, and MSD was the top-scorer with 39 off 31 balls.