VVS Laxman makes this big statement on MS Dhoni's T20I career; here's what he said
MS Dhoni could not get going from the word go as India were chasing a stiff total of 197 against New Zealand in 2nd T20.
Rajkot: While Virat Kohli did no harm to his reputation of being one of the best batsmen going around despite India losing the second Twenty20 against New Zealand, MS Dhoni, despite his 49-run knock off 37 balls, is facing calls of stepping aside from T20s to give a chance to youngsters.
After a flurry of wickets rocked Indian innings as they were chasing 197, Kohli tried his best to keep the team in hunt, scoring almost above 150 strike rate at a point of time, Dhoni barely managed to get going straightaway.
Former India cricketer VVS Laxman, who was a part of broadcasters Star Sports’ commentary team, urged Dhoni to make way for the youngsters.
"In T20s, MS Dhoni's role is at No 4. He requires more time to get his eye in and then do the job. But today (Saturday) was a classical example because when Virat Kohli was batting, Dhoni had to give strike to Kohli. Kohli's strike rate was 160, MS Dhoni's strike rate was 80. That's not good enough when India were chasing a mammoth total," said Laxman during a post-match show after the Rajkot T20.
Dhoni walked into the middle after India had lost Shreyas Iyer and Hardik Pandya in quick succession, leaving them in dire straits at 67/4 from 9.1 overs. While India needed him to tonk the ball from the word go, Dhoni struggled. While he hit a six in his first 15 balls, he could only score 15 runs from first 15 balls
"I still feel it's time for MS Dhoni to give youngsters a chance in T20 format. It will be an opportunity for a youngster to blossom and get confidence playing international cricket. He is definitely an integral part of ODI cricket," added Laxman.