T20 World Cup 2021: "Glad Dhoni took the mentor role, bowlers will benefit with his tactics," says Sehwag

MS Dhoni has been roped in as mentor of Indian cricket team for T20 World Cup 2021.

MS Dhoni | GETTY

Former India captain MS Dhoni will appear in a new role of mentor for Team India in the upcoming T20 World Cup. BCCI approached Dhoni, who had retired from international cricket last year, for the role while picking India's 15-member squad for the World Cup.

Sehwag feels Dhoni did the right thing by accepting the offer as it could be very helpful for the youngsters to get guidance from one of the smartest cricketers. The ex-India captain has experience performing under pressure for over a decade.

"I am very happy that MS accepted the offer to be the Team Mentor for the T20 World Cup. I know many people want that MS should again come back into the mainstream of Indian cricket and being roped in as the mentor is the best thing that could have happened," Sehwag told PTI.

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The 42-year-old pointed out that Dhoni could be more beneficial for the bowlers as he could come up with useful tactics to dismiss a batsman. "As a keeper, MS was exceptional with his understanding of field placements and this is something that will help the bowling unit in this World Cup. The bowlers can pick his brains and get useful tips on planning against a batsman," he said.

Sehwag also added that the introvert players who are hesitant of approaching senior cricketers or captains for help can have a conversation with Dhoni, who used to be very welcoming towards everyone during his captaincy. 

"There are always players in any international side, who are shy and do hesitate to go up to their skipper and strike up a cricketing conversation. MS has always been that kind of a person who is easily approachable and also a perfect troubleshooter for youngsters," he said.

A few notable names have been missing from the 15-man squad for the T20 World Cup. Sehwag believes the players can use the opportunity of ICC's window to change teams till October 10, and come up with noteworthy performances in the remaining matches of IPL 2021.

"100%. We have around seven matches minimum left for the teams. That means you still have a platform to perform and those who are on the fringes could still impress the Indian selectors who would be watching the tournament closely.

"Since ICC allows a window to change teams, I will not be surprised if there are some changes in the original squad," he said.

(With PTI Inputs)
 

 
 

By - 18 Sep, 2021

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