A week back, there was uncertainty over MS Dhoni's future in international cricket. Some believed Dhoni, who is on the verge of retirement, will bid farewell, while others hoped for him to continue. However, neither of both happened as the 38-year-old decided to take some time off from cricket.
Even MSK Prasad in presser cleared that decision of retirement is individual, and he can't comment on the same.
The reports from DNA India reveals that Dhoni was supposed to hang up his boots after World Cup 2019 and had even informed his teammates about it. But DNA's sources disclose that it was Virat Kohli who didn't want Dhoni to go.
"It was only after Virat (Kohli) advised Dhoni not to quit immediately that the latter changed his mind," said a source close to Kohli.
"Virat feels that Dhoni has no fitness issues and can continue till the T20 World Cup next year if required by the team. The logic is that while grooming Pant, the Indian think-tank does not want any other wicketkeeper in the team. And, if Pant suffers any injury or loss of form during this time, then Dhoni can easily come in without any issues," added the source.
Chief selector Prasad has cleared that Rishabh Pant is going to be India's first-choice wicket-keeper and will feature in all three formats going forward.
There are several potential wicket-keepers set to make an entry into the side, with the likes of Ishan Kishan, Sanju Samson and Wriddhiman Saha waiting in the wings. "All these names can't replace the experience of Dhoni when it comes to playing in a big tournament. Dhoni's guidance has always been welcomed by Virat, and that's why he wants him to be around for some more time till the team is settled," the source said.
With Dhoni set to continue to represent CSK in the next IPL season, his match fitness will not be an issue for the team management. "The T20 World Cup (to be held in Australia from October 18 to November 15, 2020) will only be about four months away from next IPL season. If the team management feels that his services are required, then why not have him in the mix till then?" the source said.
There are chances that Dhoni may end up losing his Grade A contract too. He won't be a part of the team for next two months, and as per a BCCI official, the contract is going to expire on March 2020, and with not many games, Dhoni may lose it.
"The contract may be in danger if he makes himself unavailable despite being fit. If he is continued to be ignored by selectors during the remainder of his contract, which will expire in March 2020, then certainly his Grade A category could be in danger," said the official. "The final decision in such contractual matters is taken by BCCI (COA in this case) in consultation with the team management and selectors."
(With DNA India Inputs)
