Back-up for MS Dhoni
There is little doubt that MS Dhoni is the best wicketkeeper in the world and his exploits in this year’s IPL have shown that his prowess with the bat shows no sign of diminishing. However, one big area of concern for India is the lack of a back-up for the former Indian captain.
While there are few fitter athletes in the Indian side than the 35-year-old, there is nothing wrong with having a back-up, especially for a crucial role such as the wicketkeeper. While India do have Kedar Jadhav in their ranks, the national side have used him more as an all-rounder rather than a wicketkeeper.
The lack of a backup is a concern not just because of Dhoni's incredible abilities behind the stumps but also because he occupies the crucial finisher role in the side. While Jadhav has shown he can take care of the latter, he is nothing but a part-time wicketkeeper.
In English conditions, where the ball is expected to move around, Jadhav cannot be counted upon with the gloves, which is what makes the omission of someone like Rishabh Pant, who has shown he is equally adept with both bat and behind the stumps, a little puzzling.
Brand-new app in a brand-new avatar! Download CricRocket for fast cricket scores, rocket flicks, super notifications and much more! 🚀☄️
