It will be extremely challenging for Dhoni to switch on: Sunil Gavaskar

Former Indian cricketer, Sunil Gavaskar feels that the upcoming ODI series between India and New Zealand will be very difficult for Indian limited overs skipper MS Dhoni. He states that finding his rhythm back after staying out of the international action will be little tough for him. The wicketkeeper-batsman last played for India in a T20 game in August against West Indies in the USA.

“It will be extremely challenging for Dhoni to switch on. Look at Tiger Woods, it is very difficult to catch up when you are in your 30s,” said Gavaskar ahead of their first clash in Dharamsala on Sunday While speaking to NDTV.

Gavaskar also mentioned that the Indian vice-captain, Virat Kohli will be the key batsman for India in the ODI series. He went on to add:

“Virat Kohli will be key player for India and of course, the bowlers if they bowl the right areas.”

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Having wrapped up the Test series 3-0 against New Zealand, the Indian cricket team will be locking horns with the Kiwis in the ODIs, starting from 16 October. The team has a few big names like Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja missing from the line. The selectors have taken this decision keeping in mind the long season which is set to unfold in coming days.

According to Gavaskar, the Indian team will miss the services of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja, who were instrumental in India winning the Test series against the Black caps.

“New Zealand is a very good ODI team. Brendon McCullum has left a terrific legacy. New Zealand will give India a hard time in the ODIs, much harder than the Tests.”

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The commentator also says that the ODI series will be a hard fought contest. He said that while India may go in as favourites to clinch the series, they will have to fight hard against the gritty Kiwis. The former India batsman believes that India will clinch the series with a margin of 3-2.

India and New Zealand have played 93 ODIs till now, with India emerging victorious in 46 instances and New Zealand in 41. However, of the 27 ODIs played in India, New Zealand have tasted victory only in 5 matches while losing 21 and with one match being washed out.