MSD bets on Yuvi to come good
Visakhapatnam, Oct. 19: Whilst some of the seniors have been rested for the ongoing ODI series against Australia, the one-man who has been playing non-stop is none other than the captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni.
The skipper has not had a break since the Sri Lankan Test series in the Emerald Isle back in 2008 and smiles when asked about the workload on his shoulders.
“The team has been playing non-stop. That’s part of the schedule and one can’t do much. As far as taking a break is concerned, I might hopefully take it in the next series,” Dhoni said.
Vizag holds a special place for Dhoni as he notched up his maiden hundred against Pakistan in his fifth ODI appearance here in 2005.
Dhoni said whether it was his blistering 148 or Yuvraj Singh’s 95 in the last match against Sri Lanka played here in 2007, it’s always been a happy hunting ground.
“Everytime I have played here, the ground has brought out something new... Aisa lagta hai, next time hoga toh retirement ho jayega (It seems, I will retire the next time I play here,)” he quipped.
The second ODI will be an acid test for the young brigade who will look to impress the selectors. “It will be a big learning curve for all youngsters. Every international match that you play is important. It is crucial to not look back in the past or at the future and concentrate on the present. I am sure the youngsters will be up for the big task,” Dhoni said.
The skipper was all praise for Yuvraj, who is making a comeback into the side after being overlooked for the Tests. “The batting over the years has revolved around Yuvraj. He has the ability to accelerate when needed and is a key member of the team. With his bowling skills, he can be a handy customer,” Dhoni said.
He also pointed out that Shikhar Dhawan is in all likelihood going to get his first ODI cap. “Yes, Shikhar is most likely to be considered for a debut,” Dhoni said.
He pointed out that the Delhi southpaw has been a consistent performer in the domestic circuit and deserved a place in the playing XI.
“There have been ups and downs in his career but he has been quite consistent. As an opener it’s tough, as we have Virender Sehwag, Sachin Tendulkar and Gautam Gambhir already in the ranks. It’s good that he got a chance finally. Hope he makes it count.”
Post new comment