MS Dhoni deserves all the credit possible for India’s ODI series win against Sri Lanka. Winning in Sri Lanka is a tall order by itself. Besides, Indian batsmen had been completely foxed by the magic of Ajantha Mendis both at the Asia Cup and the recent Test series. India lost the first ODI even without a fight. But Dhoni inspired an impressive turn around thereafter winning three ODIs in at a stretch.
Dhoni displayed the ability to adapt his otherwise aggressive batting style to the requirements of the team. He overcame the Mendis threat and inspired overall good performances from his team mates. He has highlighted the need to focus on youth and delivered on that promise. Virat Kohli and S. Badrinath, two of his new additions played crucial innings when it most mattered. While Yuvraj, Gambhir, Rohit Sharma struggled, Dhoni was able to step up and haul India out of trouble along with Suresh Raina. He made the right bets on the bowling combination and adapted to the four bowler strategy at the right time.
For the first time we have an Indian cricketer who is getting as much if not more credit for the victories of the team rather than jusr his individual performances. For someone who has never really had any captaincy experience in the past Dhoni’s ascent as captain is truly a revelation. Hopefully, the selectors will give Dhoni more freedom in team selection. After all he has already proven so far that he has the uncanny ability to make the right decisions at the right time.
p.s: It is not a surprise that the Dhoni brand is ahead of even the Sachin brand the days!
Pakora Korner 