‘Leave MS Dhoni alone, he’s a role model and should remain in team,’ says World Cup winning wicketkeeper

MS Dhoni’s floundering returns with the bat, coupled with the rise of Rishabh Pant, has led to many questioning the 2011 World Cup winning former captain’s presence in the team.

MS Dhoni has found support from former India wicketkeeper Syed Kirmani, who has backed Dhoni’s position in the Indian team, saying that the 38-year-old remains a “big role model for young Indian cricketers.” Dhoni’s floundering returns with the bat, coupled with the rise of Rishabh Pant, has led to many questioning the 2011 World Cup winning former captain’s presence in the team.

A file photo of MS Dhoni. (Action Images via Reuters)

“Leave him alone. There will be a time when he will retire, but we must stop talking about his retirement now,” Kirmani told reporters on the sidelines of the launch of six outlets of Hearting Solutions.

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“The way he has captained the Indian team, he’s the best captain ever. He has taken the Indian team to the highest level in Test cricket, in ODI, in T20s...”

“Dhoni should stay as he’s a big role model for the young Indian cricketers. He must stay. He already has stepped aside from Tests. It’s his decision. We should not interfere. Has anyone else earned such a fame like Dhoni?”

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“Some one will definitely take his place. We have three-four talented wicketkeepers in the reckoning. Wicketkeeping is not an easy aspect in cricket.

“It’s the most difficult position on the field and it’s a very key aspect of the game. Not everyone can do wicket-keeping by just wearing a pair of gloves.”