Are selectors looking for Dhoni's cover for West Indies series?
What's the story
The BCCI selection committee is all set to announce the ODI squad on Thursday for the series against West Indies. The two nations are currently involved in a two-match Test series. Ahead of selecting the side, there are several issues that need to be addressed. This is why, the selection committee faces a tricky situation. Here we decode the same.
Dhoni
Dhoni's position would be a key discussion point
Should veteran wicket-keeper batsman MS Dhoni be selected for the ODIs? Given his form, the selectors may ponder on the same. Dhoni is likely to make the cut as he brings a lot to the table other than batting. But one expects the selectors would also keep Rishabh Pant in mind. Between DK, Pant and Dhoni, two would make it to the list.
Information
Pant could get a chance against Windies
According to a report in PTI, a source close to the BCCI stated that Dhoni will be in the side till the World Cup, but Pant could be selected against West Indies. He could come in at number 6 or 7.
MSD
Dhoni not in best form with the bat
Dhoni was criticized for slowing things down in England where India lost the series 1-2. He was booed at Lord's after scoring 37 off 59 balls when India needed 323 to win. In Asia Cup, he had scores of 0, 33, 8 and 36. His role as a finisher has been questioned in recent times. Therefore the idea of selecting Pant is being discussed.
Kohli
Will Kohli be rested once again?
Kohli missed the Asia Cup 2018 last month, after a long tour of the UK. He returned for the Test series against West Indies and played brilliantly in the first Test. Rohit Sharma led India brilliantly in the Asia Cup, and the selectors may be tempted to give Kohli some rest. But it is unlikely that he will miss all the five ODIs.
Issues
Other issues surrounding Team India
Kedar Jadhav is battling a hamstring injury and is likely to miss out. Therefore, DK might continue in the middle order. It also remains to be seen whether Hardik Pandya makes a return from injury. He could be given further rest, keeping the tour of Australia in mind. Therefore, Ravindra Jadeja, who had an excellent Asia Cup, will continue as the all-rounder.