Will Dhoni be included in squad for ODIs against Australia?
As per reports, the BCCI is set to announce the Indian squad for the ODI series against Australia and New Zealand. This squad will give us an idea about who all would be representing India in the 2019 ICC World Cup. Former Indian captain MS Dhoni, who was ignored for the T20I series against Australia, is likely to script a comeback.
Dhoni's batting form has taken a slump
Dhoni is still the sharpest mind on-field, but what may be a reason of worry, for selectors, is his batting form. Notably, in 2018, MS averages 25 in 13 ODI innings. This is the lowest since the year he made his debut. Further, in 2018, MS has not gotten enough game time. This ODI series against Australia will be a big test for him.
Dhoni is still India's best wicket-keeper
Dhoni might be failing with the bat, but what makes the former skipper indispensable is his lightning speed behind the stumps. Dhoni has many-a-times helped India with stumpings and did so again in the fourth ODI between India and West Indies at the Brabourne Stadium, stumping out Keemo Paul in 0.08 seconds. It will be near-impossible for Pant or DK to replicate his form.
Who would be the second-choice wicket-keeper, DK or Pant?
Mumbai Mirror reported that Rishabh Pant is certain to seal the spot as the second-choice wicket-keeper after Dhoni, for the upcoming matches against Australia and New Zealand. Dinesh Karthik's chances look uncertain, and so does KL Rahul's after his poor performance in the Tests.
India's upcoming matches ahead of the World Cup
India will be playing a three-match ODI series against Australia once the Test series concludes. The matches are scheduled to be held on January 12 (Sydney), January 15 (Adelaide) and January 18 (Melbourne). Post the Australia battle, the Indian cricket team will tour New Zealand where they will be taking on the Black Caps in a five-match ODI series and a three-match T20I series.
