Ahead of the second ODI against New Zealand at Delhi, Indian skipper MS Dhoni hit the nets at the Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium. The veteran wicketkeeper-batsman, who looked in good touch in the first ODI before getting run out, was seen smashing a couple of mighty hits in the nets. In a video released by BCCI’s official Facebook page, Dhoni is witnessed hitting two straight shots above the head of the bowler.
Dhoni’s form since the last couple of years has dipped a bit, and that has been evident with his abilities to not successfully finish games for India. However, despite being scratchy, Dhoni has found a way to keep the scoreboard moving and ensure that his team has enough runs on the board. In order to get back his old form, Dhoni also recently said that batting up the order at number 5 was an option worth thinking.
Below, is the video of MS Dhoni practicing the big shots ahead of the second ODI. These hits could well be the sign of things to come in the upcoming games of the series.
Speaking to the press, Indian coach Anil Kumble mentioned that it was MS Dhoni’s idea to try Hardik Pandya with the new ball in the first ODI. “He (Pandya) can not only bowl but also bowl at a pretty decent pace as well. Bowling with the new ball was certainly the strategy MS Dhoni wanted Hardik to try. He certainly has the potential and he showed his potential in the limited opportunities that he has got, whether it be the T20s or in the ODI. With him giving us those seven-eight overs, sometimes even 10, certainly gives us a better balance in the team.”