MS Dhoni in his 200th ODI as the skipper walked at number four for the team against Afghanistan in Asia Cup 2018. Though the fans were happy to see him stepping up the order, the classic commentator, Sanjay Manjrekar feels the move isn’t a right one for team India.
Sanjay Manjrekar feels the youngsters should get a chance to find a consistent number four batsman on a regular basis. Meanwhile, Ajit Agarkar felt team management might be trying to play Dhoni at number four in 2019 World Cup.
Manish or Kedar should have batted ahead of MS Dhoni – Sanjay Manjrekar
The former India batsman quoted the game against Afghanistan was the perfect chance to test Manish Pandey and Kedar Jadhav at number four for the team. Sanjay Manjrekar stressed he isn’t impressed with Mahendra Singh Dhoni walking at number four.
Further, Sanjay mentioned India needs to look at the youngster at number four to get the more extended service. He also added Manish and Kedar are the pure batsmen available in the ranks for India in Asia Cup 2018.
”I definitely don’t agree with MS Dhoni batting at number 4 ahead of the pure batsmen Manish Pandey and Kedar Jadhav. Dhoni should bat after those two batsmen because you need to test them out. MS Dhoni’s batting form is not what Indian fans is seeking. They have to look at number 4 and 5 as the long-term option,” Sanjay Manjrekar said.
”MS Dhoni is likely to bat at number 6 and 7 for the team,” Sanjay Manjrekar inferred. Meanwhile, Ajit Agarkar quoted saying ”The team management might make up their mind to have MS Dhoni at middle-order no matter what happens. Going to the ICC World Cup 2019, they might take a call.”
However, both the experts have got valid reasons in their kitty. It is important for MS Dhoni and India to get back into the form ahead of the grand event and crucial overseas series.