MS Dhoni likely to retire after World Cup 2019: Reports
As per media reports, veteran Indian cricketer MS Dhoni is likely to retire after the ICC World Cup 2019. Dhoni, who has received a lot of flak in the ongoing tourney for not showing intent, could see the World Cup be his last outing for India. Notably, even legend Sachin Tendulkar had blasted Dhoni for his performance against Afghanistan. Here's more about it.
Dhoni unlikely to continue playing for India: BCCI official
A senior BCCI official, who didn't want to be named said to PTI, "You never know with MS Dhoni. But it is unlikely that he will continue to play for India after this World Cup...it is very difficult to predict at the moment."
Dhoni has received constant support
Dhoni has received constant backing from Indian captain Virat Kohli. The Indian team management also supports him. Batting coach Sanjay Bangar said that there are no concerns over his presence in the team. Bangar had also highlighted his importance and praised him for winning games for India. Dhoni, who is 37, would want to go out on a high by winning the CWC.
Dhoni's performance in ICC World Cup 2019
This World Cup, Dhoni has been a shadow of himself. He has played seven innings and scored 223 runs at an average of 44.60. However, he hasn't been able to finish off games as was evident against England.
Dhoni's retirement was on the cards
Dhoni's retirement from cricket was being speculated ever since the 2018 tour of England. He has been an excellent servant for Indian cricket. The former captain and 2011 World Cup winner, Dhoni hasn't yet commented anything about these reports. It remains to be seen whether he retires just from ODIs or all forms of cricket. It would be impossible to fill in Dhoni's shoes.
Dhoni has been among the runs in 2019
Dhoni has scored 550 runs in 16 matches this year. He is averaging 61.11 at the moment and has amassed five fifties in total. Overall in ODIs, he has scored 10,723 runs in 348 ODIs at 50.58. He has 10 tons and 72 fifties.
Rishabh Pant likely to be Dhoni's successor
If Dhoni does retire at the conclusion of the World Cup, youngster Rishabh Pant is likely to be his successor. Pant has already made a mark in the longest format of cricket. However, he hasn't be able to replicate his form in white-ball cricket at the international level. More than Dhoni's batting, his valuable inputs behind the stumps will be missed the most.
