Kohli passes massive statement on MS Dhoni’s slow batting: The Indian captain defended the veteran cricketer’s batting approach.
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During the 34th match of the ongoing ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 between West Indies and India at Old Trafford, India defeated West Indies by 125 runs to register their fifth victory of the tournament. The thumping victory saw India climbing to the second spot in the points table.
ALSO READ: Virender Sehwag criticizes MS Dhoni for low strike rate against spinners
One of the biggest talking point from the match was former India captain and current wicket-keeper batsman Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s approach of taking the game till the end. While Dhoni did manage to finish it off in style, him playing a lot of dot balls initially can become a source of contention for the other batsmen.
Congratulations India on another clinical win. Virat was superb and the bowlers delivered every time. #IndvsWI pic.twitter.com/60nSpswdkN
— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) June 27, 2019
Kohli passes massive statement on MS Dhoni’s slow batting
Speaking during the post-match presentation ceremony, India captain Virat Kohli was vocal about Dhoni and his batting approach. Sounding unaffected by Dhoni’s ploy with the bat in hand, Kohli laid emphasis on backing the 37-year old cricketer.
“[MS] Dhoni knows exactly what he wants to do in the middle. When he has an off day here and there, everyone starts talking. We always back him. He has won us so many games. The best thing about having someone like him is when you need those 15-20 runs, he knows exactly how to get them,” Kohli was quoted as saying.
Kohli, who became the fastest batsman to score 20,000 international runs across formats today, also highlighted Dhoni’s experience at the highest level. The Indian skipper also revealed how Dhoni gives feedback on what would be a par score for India.
“His experience, 8 out of 10 times has come good for us. We have quite a few players who play instinctive cricket and follow their game plans. He’s such a keen understanding of the game. Always sends us feedback, that you know 260 is a good score. If he says 265 is a good score on a pitch, we don’t aim for 300 and end up scoring 230. He’s a legend of the game. Just hope he can continue,” Kohli said.
Kohli further admitted that the last two matches haven’t exactly went according to India’s plans. With India coming out victorious in both the matches, Kohli praised the Indian players’ intensity and mindset.
“Last two games, things haven’t gone like we thought they would. These haven’t been massive scoring games. But we’ve found ways of winning. Intensity has been the standout thing for me. Mindset really matters. Nothing is impossible. We feel we can win from any situation,” Kohli added.
