IND vs NZ: “I Get More Off Time And Am Able To Stay Fresher And Stronger” – Shikhar Dhawan On Playing Only ODIs For India

The 36-year-old opening batsman Shikhar Dhawan has said that playing only one format for India, which is One Day Internationals, helps him to remain “fresher and stronger”.

Dhawan, who last played Test cricket in 2018 and T20I cricket in 2021, is completely out of India’s scheme of things in ODIs and T20Is. However, he is still a key member of the ODI side and is even a part of the leadership group in the format.

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Shikhar Dhawan is all set to lead the Indian team in the forthcoming three-match ODI series against New Zealand, beginning on Friday in Auckland as Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul have been rested.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of the first ODI against New Zealand, the veteran opening batsman said that playing all three formats was “a lot of cricket” for him. Dhawan stated:

“I get more off time and am able to stay fresher and stronger. When I was playing all the formats, it was a lot of cricket. I make sure that I keep myself in that groove. When I enter the team, I make sure that I keep up with the pace of the team, otherwise, I will be left behind.”

They have got a great pace attack – Shikhar Dhawan on Team New Zealand

The 36-year-old further talked about New Zealand and said that they are a good side with a great pace bowling unit. Shikhar Dhawan said:

“They have been a good side, a consistent one. They have got a great pace attack and we look forward to taking that challenge in these conditions and batting well. Boys did well in T20Is and we want to carry that momentum in ODIs.”

Shikhar Dhawan also shared his take on the Indian cricketer not getting longer ropes. He elaborated:

“It is great for the team, because it has so many great players. Communication on part of coach and captain is the key in such a situation. Players get clarity that why they are not being played. When such transparency is there, players understand that this is all for a bigger interest, the interest of the team.”

Also Read: IND vs NZ: Shikhar Dhawan Breaks Silence On Being Replaced By KL Rahul As Captain At Last Minute For Zimbabwe ODIs