Syed Kirmani says MS Dhoni is a key asset of Indian team

Kirmani also talked about transition of wicket-keepers.

MS Dhoni | GETTY

Syed Kirmani has backed MS Dhoni to retain his place in the team. The former India wicket-keeper also lauded the Indian team for their recent performance in limited-overs cricket. He said India showcased its real potential and talent in the ODI series triumph.

"Before they (the team) could get acclimatized to the conditions in South Africa, they lost the Test series. They, however, bounced back well and showed their capabilities in the ODIs and won it," he told PTI over the phone from Bengaluru.

"It was a great comeback by the team to show their real potential and talent and win the one-day series," he said.

Kirmani later talked about Dhoni's position in the team. He said it was unfair to criticise the Indian wicket-keeper. Kirmani added that he had produced results, which was more important.

"It is all about results. Those who are criticising Dhoni about his keeping and batting are not aware that he has produced results everywhere. That is the trend these days, we don't want technique, but we want results," he said.

He also lauded the former Indian skipper for the manner in which he had performed, led the side and carried himself over the years.

"He has taken the country to the top in all the formats, led from the front. Also, he has been a great ambassador for the country and has all the credentials of a great leader. So why talk about his technique, when he has produced results," the 68-year old said.

Kirmani said the concept of specialist wicketkeepers was no longer relevant in modern day cricket, especially in limited overs format.

"Since the inception of ODIs, the emphasis has been on the inclusion of a batsman who can keep wickets, so that another all-rounder can be included in the team. Rahul (Dravid) donned the role of keeper till the 2003 World Cup. This is continuing all over the world now. Specialist keeper is no longer the norm," he added.

Kirmani listed Wriddhiman Saha, Dinesh Karthik, Parthiv Patel and Naman Ojha as the ones who are at the forefront now.

"Saha, Karthik, Parthiv, Naman Ojha are there. They are all equally good. Whoever shows consistency and delivers gets the opportunity. They could be rotated depending on that," he added.

 
 

By Sihyeu Singh - 19 Feb, 2018

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