MS Dhoni can be India's No.1 player in the World Cup 2019: Mohammad Azharuddin

MS Dhoni had a poor 2018, as the former Indian captain struggled with his batting form. The Indian wicketkeeper-batsman managed to score only 275 runs in 20 One-Day Internationals in the previous calendar year. Despite the dip in form he still enjoys a lot of support from Indian team management as well as the fans who have not forgotten his contributions. Team India is set to play 13 ODIs before the start of the World Cup and there is ample time for him to regain form.

Mohammad Azharuddin also backs the veteran to be at his best when it counts the most. The preparation for the all-important tournament will start with the three-match ODI series against Australia. Azharuddin claimed that Dhoni’s experience will be an asset for the Indian team and argued that the leadership skills of the former Indian captain will be very useful during the World Cup.

The stylish Hyderabadi admitted that he likes Dhoni a lot and believes that the experienced batsman can emerge as India’s best player in the World Cup. “I like Dhoni a lot. I feel Dhoni will emerge as India’s No. 1 player in the 2019 World Cup because he has so much experience and we have seen how he marshals the troops from behind the stumps,” Azharuddin said as quoted by India Today

MS Dhoni is India’s most successful captain till now

He also pointed out that Dhoni guides the bowlers and helps Virat Kohli by giving his key inputs at crucial junctures in the matches. He argued that these small things can make a big difference and added that Dhoni is India’s most successful captain to date.

“He even guides the bowlers on where to bowl and helps Kohli with the field placements. That makes a huge difference. He is so experienced and the most successful captain till now,” Azhar said.

Earlier, India’s limited-overs vice-captain Rohit Sharma also talked about the importance of Dhoni to the team. The Indian opening batsman said that the senior pro’s presence is very important to the dressing room. He further added that his presence helps in bringing calmness to the group which is very important.

“Over the years, we have seen what sort of presence MS Dhoni has in the dressing room and on the field. With him around, there’s a sense of calmness in the group which is very important and also a bit of help to the captain because he stands behind the stumps and he has captained India for so many years.. he has been a successful captain for India.” Rohit said.

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