Gautam Gambhir believes it's time to look beyond MS Dhoni
What's the story
Former Indian skipper, MS Dhoni continues to remain unavailable for selection, as there have been debates as to if he should call time on his illustrious career. Meanwhile, former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir has opined that while Dhoni's retirement should be his personal choice, he is not confident enough of seeing him play the ICC World T20 2020. Here's more.
Quote
Don't see Dhoni playing the next World Cup: Gambhir
"I feel that retirement is a very individual decision. Till the time you want to play you are allowed to play, but you do have to look at the future as well. I do not see Dhoni playing the next World Cup," said Gambhir.
Captain's call
Gambhir feels captain should be bold enough to speak
Gambhir also brought forward the fact that the Indian captain should be bold enough to speak on the team's schemes and if a particular player fits in to the squad or not. "It is time for some of the youngsters to get groomed in the next four-five years because ultimately, it is not about Dhoni, it is about the country," reckoned Gambhir.
Current status
Dhoni yet to play for India following World Cup ouster
For now, Dhoni is on a sabbatical from the sport following the conclusion of India's ICC World Cup 2019 campaign. Dhoni has missed India's campaign against Windies and South Africa so far, while he is also set to miss it against Bangladesh in November, having extended his break until the month. He is likely to play the T20Is against the Windies in December.
Push youngsters
Gambhir urges for push for Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson
Gambhir further said that the question was not if Dhoni would play the World T20 next year, but grooming the right candidate, ideally in the form of Rishabh Pant or Sanju Samson. "You might want to give the opportunity to Pant or Samson, any young cricketer They should get the opportunity I think, personally, if you ask me," opined Gambhir.
Samson in List-A
Samson has dominated List-A cricket so far
Samson has been in a decent form. Considering his last five List A matches, he has scored 210 runs at an average of 42. Meanwhile, Pant has managed to score just 56 in his last five ODIs, at a poor average of 14. Thus, going by the recent performance, Samson can be given a chance in ODIs.