Selectors need to speak to MS Dhoni about his plans, says Kiran More
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Former chief selector Kiran More believes that the selectors need to go and speak to veteran MS Dhoni about his future plans, before taking a call on his future. Rumours have been aplenty about Dhoni's future, with reports even suggesting that he no more is the first-choice wicketkeeper.
A major question will be answered on July 19 when chief selector MSK Prasad along with other selectors announce the Indian squad for the tour of the West Indies. Over the past week, reports have suggested that Dhoni is no more the first-choice wicketkeeper, and even if he is picked in the squad, Rishabh Pant might very well be the person taking his place in the starting XI.
The selectors are set to give Pant a one-year window to settle into the team, and by the looks of it, Dhoni might be the person who will help Pant to transition into the side, before he finally calls it a day.Â
From a selectors' perspective, it is never easy to drop a player, especially one with humongous experience, fan following and reputation. By dropping a player, they take a major risk which might cause massive outrage and backlash from the fans and even former cricketers. Former Indian chief selector Dilip Vengsarkar breaks down the exact scenario.Â
"Well, you have to have the courage and conviction. Itâs the job of the selectors to review performances and draw a roadmap for the future,â Vengsarkar was quoted as saying by Times of India.Â
Vengsarkar insisted on the necessity for the selectors to identify the right players for the right format, thus building bench strength, while also keeping the coach and captain aware of it, in order to make things smooth and easier for everyone.Â
âYou need to know who exactly are the players who fit into your Test pool, ODI pool and T20 pool. Track their performance, identify bench strength and create options,â he explained. âItâs also important to keep the think-tank in the loop and seek their suggestions about the road ahead,â he said.
Meanwhile, former Indian wicketkeeper and chief selector Kiran More, who was recently named as the interim coach of the United States Cricket team, feels that the selectors must invest in players with a long-term vision, and give enough chances to fringe players, thus making it easier for them when they eventually step in.Â
"You know exactly how the current squad has performed. Now, you need to envision how they would be placed in another couple of years. Get back-up players ready and give them enough chances to prove themselves,â More told TOI.Â
However, he did admit the fact that the selectors need to be careful with a player like Dhoni, and talk to him about his future plans before taking any decision about his role in the team. He also insisted that communication is key, in order to avoid misunderstanding between the players and the selectors.Â
âHowever, you need to be careful and not create insecurity among players. When it comes to someone like Dhoni, you go and speak to him about his plans. You respect his decision and also convey to him what you feel is the way ahead for the team. Communication is very important,â More added.
