If IPL Doesn't Take Place, MS Dhoni's Chances Look Grim, Opines Kris Srikkanth

The 13th edition of Indian Premier League (IPL) very likely looks as cancelled, considering the current circumstances. The COVID-19 pandemic has grabbed the spotlight for the wrong reasons, leaving the citizens of India fighting for their life. Former chief selector Kris Srikkanth reckons that if the lucrative tournament doesn’t take place, MS Dhoni may not make it to the World T20 squad for India.

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The BCCI postponed the 2020 edition of the IPL from March 29th to April 15th to give the virus to subside. However, the increasing cases day by day may have left the board with only one option. The competition was viewed as the gateway for MS Dhoni to make a comeback to the national side, who hasn’t played since last July. But it could deter his chances in the likely scenario that the tournament gets called off.

Expressing his opinions in a Star Sports Show, Srikkanth heaped admirations on the former captain as fit, brilliant, and a massive asset to the team. At the same time, he was candid that if the IPL doesn’t take place, it would be difficult to see him in national colours again.

“So, I wouldn’t mind taking him along with the squad, but definitely, if the IPL doesn’t happen, then Dhoni will have a difficult time getting back into the team for the T20 World Cup. Let’s be very honest about it. He is absolutely fit, he is a legend, he is brilliant. I am a great fan of Dhoni myself. But the question is for the World Cup team. So you’ll have to put the Indian team first and then the individuals.” Srikkanth said as quoted by Hindustan Times.

Ravi Shastri’s take on MS Dhoni’s inclusion:

Current coach Ravi Shastri earlier mentioned that it all depends on how Dhoni fares in the IPL. He admitted that stiff competition would exist between the keeper-batsman and the other players. But until the tournament is concluded, one cannot decide on what is their best 15. Hence, the competition is a significant platform in that context.

“It all depends on when he starts playing and how he is playing during the IPL. What are the other people doing with the wicket-keeping gloves or what is the form of those players as opposed to Dhoni’s form. The IPL becomes a massive tournament because that could be the last tournament after which more or less your 15 is decided.” Shastri stated as quoted by IANS.

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