Suresh Raina says MS Dhoni must bat at number 4 in ODIs

What's the story?

Former Indian middle order batsman, Suresh Raina participated in an interview with the Sportstar on Tuesday where he discussed about MS Dhoni's position in the batting order. The left-handed batsman feels that Dhoni should bat at number 4 and not at number 5 in the 50 overs format and he gave a valid reason why India must consider promoting Dhoni to number four.

In case you didn't know...

Last week, Mahendra Singh Dhoni made a triumphant return to form as he steered team India to a 2-1 win in the ODI series against Australia. The former captain's place in the Indian playing XI was in question before that series however, Dhoni won the man of the series award and proved why he is the best. The only question that the Indian team has with regards to MS Dhoni is his batting position. A lot of critics have voiced their opinions saying that Dhoni must bat at number 4 but the team captain Virat Kohli said in a recent press conference that he would like to have Dhoni bat at no.5 in the World Cup.

The heart of the matter

In an interview with Sportstar, Suresh Raina described Dhoni's return to form and asserted why he must bat at number 4 in ODIs. Raina said, "Last couple of games, he has been batting well. He can bat well with the tailenders also. If he can bat at four, he can also finish games with the five, six and seven. A lot of players can play around him."

Also, the Uttar Pradesh born all-rounder mentioned how Virat Kohli's trust has revived Dhoni's form. "He has been playing with a positive frame of mind. He is hitting the ball really well, and most importantly, he is getting a lot of backup and support from Virat (Kohli). If you have the support of the captain, then you just go out there and express yourself. The No 4 slot suits him," Raina added.

What's next?

India are currently playing a 5-match ODI series against New Zealand and the team has very few matches to pencil in their final playing XI for the World Cup.

At which position should MS Dhoni bat in the ODIs? Share your answers in the comments box below.