Deep Dasgupta believes MS Dhoni's form will be important for Team India

Australia won the first ODI of the three-match ODI series by 34 runs. While Rohit Sharma tried his best, a top-order collapse meant that he was left to wage a lone battle. He got together with MS Dhoni to build a partnership worth 137 for the fourth wicket to create a fight. Dhoni scored a half-century but he used up 96 balls in the process, which made many question his place in the ODI team. Former Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Deep Dasgupta thinks that the veteran’s form would be very crucial to India’s chances in the World Cup 2019.

He believes that Dhoni’s position in the ODI set up is not in any kind of danger but his form can do a world of good for Team India. The cricketer-turned-commentator also argued that if Dhoni is in form it will make planning easier for the team management.

“I don’t think there are any doubts about his position at the World Cup but being in form does help. I think if he can score runs here in Australia and New Zealand, the team can play accordingly. If you know what kind of a form he is in, what kind of a role he can play in the match, then it’s easier for the team to plan for the World Cup,” Dasgupta told Mail Today.

The team should stick with MS Dhoni

He pointed out that India will play only a handful of ODIs before the World Cup so they should avoid making too many changes, hence it is important to see how Dhoni plays. He claimed that Rishabh Pant won’t get ample opportunity to perform while Dhoni is around. The former Indian wicketkeeper further added that Pant is one for the future for sure.

“There are just 13 ODIs to be played before the start of the tournament and I don’t think much will change in terms of team selection. So, it’s important how plays, World Cup is too soon for Pant. I think with Dhoni playing, he won’t have the chance to perform. He is one for the future for sure,” he added.

Deep Dasgupta predicted a series win for India

Dasgupta predicts that Team India will still win the series 2-1. He pointed out that Australia has no dearth of experience and they can replace their star fast bowlers. He further added that Mohammed Siraj should be given an opportunity to prove himself ahead of the World Cup.

“I think India should win the series. Australia has experience and has players to fill the absence of the likes of Starc, Hazlewood, and Cummins. I think, with Bumrah rested and a possible rest for Shami as well, Siraj should get the opportunity to lead the line. I think it will be a great chance for him to show his strength and make a claim for himself heading into the World Cup,” he concluded.

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