Karnataka’s own Anil Kumble said MS Dhoni’s form in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) will be crucial if he is planning to make a comeback in the Indian team. His inclusion or exclusion from the squad that travels to Australia for the 2020 World T20 will depend upon how the veteran wicketkeeper does in the domestic league.
Kumble on Dhoni’s future
India will gear up to play T20 Internationals in 2020 to equip themselves for the T20 World Cup in Australia. Keeping that in mind, the former Indian captain Anil Kumble said that Dhoni’s destiny with the Indian team and his joining into the 2020 World T20 squad may depend upon how he performs in the 2020 IPL.
“It’s all about how MS (Dhoni) goes surrounding the IPL and if at all the Indian team thinks that they need certain services for the World Cup, then from there on he may be a part of the squad. But we will have to wait and watch,” Kumble told.
Other alternatives for a W-K
On otherwise situation, Kumble believes that India should settle with Sanju Samson. “The different choice that India certainly needs to look towards is Sanju Samson. He has been an excellent batsman, and we all know that. We have seen what kind of ability he has. He is great behind the stumps.”
Kumble also caught the name of Ishan Kishan and KL Rahul as other alternatives. But Kumble pushes the management to set the combination right away and give them time to settle in before progressing to Australia for the tournament.
Guru Mantra before the tournament
Kumble gave a ‘Guru Mantra’ before the tournament. He analyzed that India needs to recognize wicket-taking bowlers for the World T20 next year as it will be a crucial part for them if they are looking to conquer the tournament. Jumbo supported spin duo of Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav to be part of India’s bowling unit for the masterpiece event and also added that pure fast bowlers instead of all-rounders can be looked at if required.
“I positively believe that we need wicket-taking bowlers and someone like a Kuldeep and Chahal require to be a part of the team in my viewpoint. Yes, there are situations where you know the ball gets wet because of the dew, then is it appropriate for two wrist-spinners to be there,” Kumble said.
“It is very necessary that you need to start looking out for wicket-taking options. If it means that you need to bring in just fast bowlers who you believe will pick up wickets, rather than looking at all-rounders, which I think this team is looking for; I think that’s the critical aspect,” he added.
