Here's where Sachin Tendulkar feels MS Dhoni should bat
What's the story
The Indian cricket team will be counting on its batting in the upcoming ICC World Cup 2019.
However, there are a few question marks regarding the middle order.
India haven't figured out completely who is to bat at number four.
Moreover, MS Dhoni's batting position is also in doubts.
Nonetheless, Sachin Tendulkar has a suggestion for Team India.
Number five
Tendulkar believes Dhoni should bat at number five
Tendulkar feels that the number four spot should ideally go to someone else, while Dhoni should preferably bat at number five.
India could opt for Vijay Shankar at number four in most probable scenario.
With MSD at number five, it will allow him to play his explosive game towards the end with Hardik Pandya and Kedar Jadhav.
All three are suitable finishers.
Quote
Tendulkar wants to see MSD at number five
"I still don't know what the team combination would be, but if you are going [with] Rohit and Shikhar as openers, to Virat [Kohli] at No. 3 and whoever at No. 4 then Dhoni could be No. 5," Tendulkar said in an interview with ESPNCricinfo.
Number five
Dhoni has a good record batting at number five
Considering Dhoni's records at his preferred batting positions, there is a notable difference.
While he ideally bats at number six, he has scored 4,031 in 126 innings at an average of 46.33, including a century and 29 fifties.
However, batting at number five, he has scored 3,079 in 79 innings at a generous average of 52.18, including four centuries and 18 fifties.
Author's take
Dhoni's brutal form and number five spot makes him dangerous
Dhoni enjoyed some brutal form in the recently concluded IPL 12.
He scored 416 runs in 12 innings at a stupendous average of 83.20 and was the leading run-scorer for Chennai Super Kings..
Also, having scored 327 runs in last eight ODI innings at an average of 81.75, the author firmly believes that he would be unstoppable at number five in the World Cup.
Next venture
Team India eyeing its third World Cup title
Riding on Dhoni's glorious form and immense success, Team India will be vying for its third World Cup title, as the tournament gets underway from May 30.
As it seems to be Dhoni's final 50-over World Cup, least to say, he would hardly leave any stones unturned for one final success with the Indian cricket team.