Former cricketers Varun Aaron, Irfan Pathan, and Virender Sehwag have thrown their weight behind MS Dhoni’s inclusion in the Indian squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024. The wicket-keeping conundrum facing Team India has intensified with a plethora of talented options vying for selection, including Rishabh Pant, Sanju Samson, Dinesh Karthik, and Ishan Kishan. However, Dhoni’s remarkable performances in the ongoing IPL 2024 have prompted calls for his inclusion in the T20 World Cup squad.
Aaron and Pathan heaped praise on Dhoni, stating that no one would deny him a place in the team if he expressed his desire to play in the tournament. They highlighted his impressive batting skills, which have been on full display during the IPL season. Sehwag echoed their sentiments, emphasizing Dhoni’s unmatched prowess in the death overs, making him a crucial asset for Team India.
Dhoni’s recent exploits in the IPL have been nothing short of remarkable. He has amassed 91 runs at a staggering strike rate of 260 in the eight matches he has played so far. His blistering knock of 37* runs off just 16 balls against Delhi Capitals and his back-to-back sixes off Hardik Pandya in the final over against Mumbai Indians are testaments to his enduring power-hitting abilities. Against Lucknow Super Giants, the 42-year-old veteran notched up an impressive 28* runs off a mere 9 balls.
Despite Dhoni’s impressive form, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have suffered back-to-back defeats against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). In their most recent encounter, CSK posted a formidable total of 210 runs, thanks to a brilliant century from Ruturaj Gaikwad and a quick-fire 66 from Shivam Dube. However, LSG chased down the target with relative ease, largely due to a magnificent century from Marcus Stoinis. CSK’s consecutive losses have raised some concerns about their current form, casting a slight shadow over Dhoni’s World Cup aspirations.
Notwithstanding the recent setbacks, Dhoni’s exceptional skills and experience remain undeniable. His inclusion in the T20 World Cup squad would undoubtedly bolster Team India’s chances of success. As the tournament approaches, all eyes will be on the selectors to see if they heed the advice of former cricketers and give Dhoni the opportunity to showcase his talents on the grandest stage of them all.
