With the 18-run loss against New Zealand in the semi-final, Indian fans were crestfallen as the Black Caps stunned the Men in Blue in a low-scoring affair in Manchester. Despite all the happening, MS Dhoni had remained a centre of attraction with many believing he will hang his boots anytime. Of late, the cricketing pundits had reiterated MS Dhoni’s absence would leave a void in Team India’s line-up. Now, MS Dhoni has officially hung his boots from international cricket.
Former Indian skipper MS Dhoni has played a quintessential role for the national team with his thinking brain. Known for his reflexes behind the stumps, Dhoni had served as one of the prominent wicketkeeper-batsman who has graced the cricketing world. Now, Dhoni is past the prime who had delivered as a skipper. In the 50-over fold, Dhoni had produced some blazing knocks by winning thrilling contests for India.
MS Dhoni, who had recently turned 39, had featured in 350 ODIs, 98 T20Is and 90 Tests since 2004. In 297 ODI innings, Dhoni had accumulated 10773 runs at an average of 50.6. In the 50-over fold, Dhoni had claimed 321 catches, affected 38 stumps and 22 run outs respectively.
Let’s have a look at those three players who can replace MS Dhoni post his retirement:
Ishan Kishan:
Interestingly, the exciting prospect Ishan Kishan, who hails from Jharkhand has also played alongside MS Dhoni. The southpaw has done exceedingly well in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Also, from time-to-time, Kishan had already looked at Dhoni for his invaluable tips behind the stumps.
The 20-year-old cricketer Kishan had represented Mumbai Indians (MI) in the IPL. He had proved his mettle while playing spin according to the merit. Known as a versatile character, Kishan has this unique ability to bat at different positions. He like his idol is also banking on an aggressive brand of cricket.
One of the exciting youngsters, Kishan, has technically impressed one and all. He is there to compete with Samson and Pant for the spot in future.