Durban, Dec. 25: Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s men have been ranked No.1 for a year now but there has been some criticism that they haven’t yet beaten the top sides, South Africa and Australia in an away series.
But Dhoni reckoned their side had played “consistent cricket” befitting their numero uno status, and would like to do same in the Boxing Day Test against South Africa. “We have played some good, consistent cricket throughout the year. Everyone has contributed — bowlers, batsmen and fielders.”
“The part-timers have contributed in getting wickets, the lower-order has chipped in with crucial runs. As a team we have had a good calendar year. There are plenty of positives in the kind of cricket we have played, There’s no reason why we can’t do all this to end the year on a good note,” Dhoni said on Saturday.
The skipper, however, admitted the bowlers would have to step up their game. “Zaheer Khan will be back in the side, which is a big bonus for us. At the same time, we know the other bowlers have the talent. It’s just that they need to execute the plans well, and at times they have to be patient.”
“If they take care of these things, the bowlers will do well. As we saw in the last game, we were not able to get even 10 wickets. It is definitely a big worry if you want to win the Test,” Dhoni said.
He said he was not sure how the track would pan out. “I am not sure how the Test wicket is going to play, but on a good day, when the wicket’s flat, it’s a fantastic place to play.”
“The wicket looks quite green. But as far as I can recollect, I played a Ranji Trophy game in my debut first-class season against Vadodara at the IPCL ground, which was even greener,” Dhoni said.
He said India would retain the three seamers and one spinner combination for the match. “The spinner can have a control on the proceedings. When you have a wicket like this, the batsmen look to cash in on the spinners. If you bowl to a good line and length you can always contribute to the game, irrespective of the wicket.”