MS Dhoni Opens up on his Intentions Behind Taking the Ball from the Umpire

Former India skipper MS Dhoni has finally revealed his intentions behind taking the ball from the umpire following India’s loss to England in the 3rd ODI.

Meanwhile, there was widespread speculation about Dhoni’s retirement after the third One-day International at Headingley in Leeds. He asked for the ball from the on-field umpire Michael Gough despite losing the match which ignited the speculations.

Previously, MS Dhoni received an array of criticism following his slow innings in the second and third ODIs respectively. In the second game, he struggled before getting out on 37 runs which came off 59 balls. Furthermore, in the third outing, he departed after scoring 42 off 66.

However, head coach Ravi Shastri coming to Dhoni’s rescue smashing all the speculations.

“That’s rubbish. MS is not going anywhere,” Shastri confirmed to TOI. “MS Dhoni wanted to show the ball to Bharat Arun. He wanted to show him the wear and tear the ball had endured, to get a general idea of what the conditions were like,” he added.

Shastri clarified that if criticism has to come Dhoni’s way, he might as well endure it. But it wouldn’t make him any less significant, given what he brings to the squad.

MS Dhoni clears the air

Speaking over this for the first time, Dhoni revealed he wanted to show the ball to India’s bowling coach Bharat Arun. He also explained that he was curious to know why the ball didn’t reverse during the game.

“We should try to focus on and complete our work. I wanted to know that why the ball didn’t reverse swing. Consequently, I asked for the ball from the umpire to show it our bowling coach, Bharat Arun,” ABP (Wah Cricket) quoted Dhoni saying.

Meanwhile, MS Dhoni is currently in India having some off time from cricket. He will be next seen in the upcoming Asia Cup 2018 in September in the United Arab Emirates.