ODI Squad: Dhoni’s cover, Kohli’s workload key issues

Dec 31, 2018 at 2:02 PM

facebook iconlinkedin iconmail icontwitter iconWhatsApp iconTelegram icon
ODI Squad: Dhoni’s cover, Kohli’s workload key issues

Hyderabad, Oct 10: Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s poor batting form might force selectors to include the flamboyant Rishabh Pant when they pick the ODI squad for the limited-overs leg of the ongoing home series against the West Indies, here Thursday. Indian Cricket Team

It is still not clear whether the squad will be announced for the first three games or the entire series, which comprises five ODIs and three T20 Internationals and starts on October 21.

Must Read – Want to be the new ball bowler who can bat too: Chahar

Skipper Virat Kohli’s presence may be another key issue even though it’s unlikely that he will be inclined to rest for the entire series.

However, the primary bone of contention will be whether the selectors and the team management will at least agree on having a cover batsman for Dhoni, whose wicketkeeping remains sharp but batting form has been on the slide.

“We all know that Dhoni will play till the World Cup but there is no harm in grooming Pant, who could be a terrific No.6 or 7 batsman, who has the ability to finish games,” a senior BCCI official privy to selection matters told PTI today.

Since his debut Test hundred at the Oval followed by a stroke-filled 92 in Rajkot, calls for the 20-year-old’s inclusion have only grown louder.

Read More – Myanmar Scores 9 for 8, Malaysia Chases Down in Just Two Overs

While Dinesh Karthik is already there, his consistency and inability to finish matches at crucial junctures will keep the team management worried.

There are a few other permutations that the selectors might consider.

Kedar Jadhav’s dodgy hamstring will rule him out of the limited-overs leg which opens up one potential middle-order batting slot.

Ambati Rayudu, after a good Asia Cup performance, will retain his place even if Kohli decides to play.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah are set to come back after a much-needed break during the ongoing Test series.

Also Like – Rishabh Pant Likely to be Added as Cover for MS Dhoni

Ravindra Jadeja is also expected to make it after his lion-hearted show as Axar Patel’s replacement.

The axe might just fall on Manish Pandey, who has had a poor run of late since getting a chance against Afghanistan.

Related Article
I’ve Been Left In A Very Dark Place – Veteran West Indies Cricketer Darren Bravo Steps Away From Cricket After Being Ignored For England Series
I’ve Been Left In A Very Dark Place – Veteran West Indies Cricketer Darren Bravo Steps Away From Cricket After Being Ignored For England Series

Nov 26, 2023, 10:40 AM


West Indies vs Sri Lanka 2021, 3rd T20I: Fantasy Cricket Tips
West Indies vs Sri Lanka 2021, 3rd T20I: Fantasy Cricket Tips

Mar 7, 2021, 9:17 PM


Bangladesh vs West Indies 2021, 2nd Test: Fantasy Cricket Tips
Bangladesh vs West Indies 2021, 2nd Test: Fantasy Cricket Tips

Feb 10, 2021, 3:36 AM


Ian Bishop Opines Why West Indies Has Dearth Of Star Players
Ian Bishop Opines Why West Indies Has Dearth Of Star Players

Aug 8, 2020, 2:45 PM


Australia Vs West Indies T20I Series Postponed
Australia Vs West Indies T20I Series Postponed

Aug 4, 2020, 11:20 AM


England Vs West Indies 2020, 3rd Test: Day 3 – England Start Dreaming To Win The Series After An All-Round Domination Day
England Vs West Indies 2020, 3rd Test: Day 3 – England Start Dreaming To Win The Series After An All-Round Domination Day

Jul 27, 2020, 12:21 AM


Desktop Banner
Mobile Banner