VVS Laxman hails MS Dhoni; calls Bhuvneshwar Kumar as the most skillful bowler he has ever seen

VVS Laxman (L) alongside Mahendra Singh Dhoni

Former Indian middle order batsman VVS Laxman, calling the visitors as the “favourites” to win the five-match Test series against England that begins at Trent Bridge on Wednesday, heaped praises on Indian captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni for effective handling of the transition period.

Laxman said: “He has done very well as far as the transition is concerned and has handled the resources really well. A captain is as good as his team and it is important that everyone take responsibility for their performance.

“Dhoni did an excellent job in maintaining a good dressing room environment when we lost in England and Australia. A lot of credit has to go to the skipper.”

The 39-year-old, who has over 11,000 runs for India in international circuit, also credited the Indian coach Duncan Fletcher for letting the younger lot flourish.

“We've had enough opportunity to know that he's one of the best captains the world has ever seen, and he will lead from the front this time in England too. I firmly believe Dhoni and (coach Duncan) Fletcher have played a key role in the team's transition. I'm impressed with how Fletcher has allowed our youngsters to flourish,” said Laxman.

When questioned on India’s bowling resources, Laxman, who has been in the international arena for close to 16 years, surprisingly, picked Bhuvneshwar Kumar as the most skillful bowler he has seen in his career.

“We've got talent and potential. I've been with Bhuvaneshwar Kumar and Ishant Sharma during the IPL. Bhuvi is the most skillful bowler I have seen in my career.

“Ishant bowls his heart out. I am sure both will have a huge impact in England. Mohd Shami's pace will complement both. We have the potential and we will have to wait and see which spinner plays. I will go with (Ravichandran) Ashwin as he is a complete bowler. His maturity will help India to do well,” the Hyderabad batsman concluded.