MS Dhoni unlikely to be selected for T20Is against SA
What's the story
Veteran wicket-keeper batsman MS Dhoni is unlikely to be selected for India's three-match T20I series against South Africa, starting on September 15 in Dharamsala. It has been reported that the Indian selectors are keen to build a road map for the future with the World T20 in mind. This will see Rishabh Pant being the main choice for the side. Here's more.
T20I squad
We could see the same squad selected earlier against WI
The squad for the T20I series against South Africa is likely to be selected on September 4. According to a report in PTI, the squad is set to be the same that was picked against West Indies recently. This is in view in relation to the upcoming ICC World T20 in 2020. The selectors want to build a side for the coveted event.
Quote
It's time to move forward: BCCI official
"There are only 22 T20 Internationals before India play their first World T20 game and the selectors are clear in their vision that it's time to move forward," said a senior BCCI official to PTI.
Keepers
Indian selectors have identified Samson and Kishan as back-up options
Meanwhile, the report also adds that the selectors have identified three wicket-keepers for the T20Is. Besides Pant, the likes of Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan are in the fray. "They are planning on getting a pool of three wicketkeepers ready for the limited overs, especially T20Is," the official added. Samson's performances in the upcoming five-match series for India A against Proteas will be crucial.
Speculation
Speculation surrounding Dhoni has gone on since awhile
Dhoni's retirement from cricket has been speculated ever since the 2018 tour of England. Earlier, reports stated that one could see the World Cup be Dhoni's last outing for India. However, Dhoni didn't take any such stance. He decided to skip India's tour of West Indies in July 2019. It was reported that MSD would help Team India in a smooth transition instead
Dhoni's Army stint
Dhoni had decided to take a break to serve Army
Dhoni took a two-month sabbatical from the sport in order to be a part of the Territorial Army unit of the Parachute Regiment. MSD served in the Kashmir Valley as part of Victor Force for a period of two weeks. The 38-year-old had undergone patrol and guard duties in Kashmir, where his battalion was posted. He was also at Leh district.
Situation
Both Dhoni and selectors have the right to make decisions
It remains to be seen whether the selectors ask Dhoni regarding his plans ahead of the team selection for the series against South Africa. They had consulted him before the Windies tour. However, the official added that Dhoni has every right to decide on his retirement. He also backed the MSK Prasad-led committee to prepare for the way forward.
Information
All depends on Dhoni and he should evaluate his situation
Dhoni should evaluate his situation and decide according to the same. If he feels that he can offer something more to the side, then the selectors should pick him. One feels that Dhoni has the attributes to continue till the World T20 and then retire.