Dhoni should be given assurance of his spot in 2019 World Cup: Virender Sehwag

36-year old Mahendra Singh Dhoni has put out two match-winning knocks in the ongoing ODI series against Sri Lanka. Dhoni scored an unbeaten 45* at Pallekele in the 2nd ODI and followed it up with a 67* not out in the 3rd game. India were in a spot of bother until Dhoni played a sensible knock and stitched match-winning partnerships with Bhuvneshwar Kumar first, and then with opener Rohit Sharma.

Veterans to the rescue

Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag has recently said that Dhoni should be given assurance of his spot in the World Cup to help him play in a free flow manner. Dhoni is currently taking part in his 300th ODI match, having scored 9608 runs in his previous 299 games at an average of 51.93, along with 10 centuries and 65 fifties.

In an interview with TOI, Sehwag spoke about the present scenario where veterans like Yuvraj Singh and Suresh Rain are left out in the cold, with focus on the youngsters, leading up to the 2019 World Cup. “If the top-order fails, then either of these two (Yuvraj Singh and Suresh Raina), batting with Dhoni, could be very useful,” the former India opener said and then explained, “The youngsters need a lot of time to gain experience.”

India A tours are vital

Talking about giving exposure and building experience to the younger lot, Sehwag said “India ‘A’ tours have become more important. Selectors and the Indian team get feedback on players doing well in overseas conditions. Then they can take them for away tours,”.

Chief selector MSK Prasad had recently said that Dhoni will have to perform to retain his place in the side. Many took a dig at Prasad and even taunted him after Dhoni produced two back to back winning knocks. “Selectors should give Dhoni the assurance that he should be playing till the 2019 World Cup. The alternatives could be tried after the next World cup.” Sehwag concluded.