India can’t keep depending on MS Dhoni: Anil Kumble

It’s a no-brainer that India’s experienced wicketkeeper-batsman MS Dhoni struggled during the recently-concluded 2018 Asia Cup in the UAE. The former India captain returned with 77 runs in four innings. Following his dismal performance with the willow, Dhoni came under harsh criticism and questions were also raised about his position in the playing eleven.

Former India skipper and head coach Anil Kumble believes Dhoni should be allowed to enjoy the final phase of his career. “The Indian middle-order still does not have a settled look and the team can’t keep depending on Mahendra Singh Dhoni to be the finisher. He should be left to enjoy the game and engage with younger players to finish games,” Kumble told Sportstar.

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Dhoni’s lacklustre performance has added to India’s middle order woes which continues to haunt the side. However, skippers Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have backed Dhoni, who has struggled to get going and in the bargain, has soaked up plenty of deliveries. During India’s 2018 Asia Cup final against Bangladesh, Dhoni’s 36 came in 67 balls with a strike-rate of 53.73. With no runs baking Dhoni of late, will a place in the 2019 World Cup be guaranteed? Let’s wait and watch.

Meanwhile, Kumble revealed that his favourite Indian captains are Mohammed Azharuddin and Sourav Ganguly.