MS Dhoni's numbers have overridden in the last year and year and half: Aakash Chopra

MS Dhoni is a world-class finisher but his talent has been questioned by many recently. The second T20I was where the former Indian captain was heavily criticized for his low strike rate and inconsistency when it comes to the shortest format of the game. The experienced wicketkeeper retired from Test cricket three years ago. Since then it has only been the shorter formats of the game for Dhoni.

However, some of the experts and even the former players are saying that the selectors should rethink his place for upcoming Sri Lanka tour. One of the most vocal former cricketers was Aakash Chopra. He had a lot to say about the Jharkhand player.

Replace Dhoni for the Sri Lanka series

Aakash was of the opinion that Dhoni’s numbers have overridden in recent times and he needs a break. He said that Sri Lanka is not a top side and Dhoni can be pardoned for the series. In his place, a youngster can come in and get some experience. After the Sri Lanka series is over, the former Indian skipper can be rethought for the South African tour.

“After this series (India vs New Zealand) is done, India is playing against Sri Lanka. They (SL) are not a top draw, and one can take chances and then maybe rethink once you go to South Africa, because you have few T20 matches against a top-ranked T20 side (South Africa). They will come hard at you,” Aakash said while talking on Star Sports.

“For the Sri Lanka tour to India, maybe time is ripe to try somebody else, keep them in the loop. Because Dhoni’s numbers have overridden the last year and year and half, it has dwindled,” the former Indian cricketer added.

Dhoni is a superstar in India and irrespective of his numbers he will always be a part of the side making bigger contributions than just with the bat. But Chopra he feels that the Indian superstar needs to sit out the Lanka tour. With Virat Kohli and Ravi Shastri in the charge, it will be interesting to see if the selectors listen to some of the criticism.