Former cricketers back MS Dhoni to continue playing until 2019 World Cup

MSD retired from Test cricket in 2014 to concentrate more on his limited over game. But some failure in finishing the games lately has raised doubts about the finishing ability of the talisman from Ranchi. But after promoting himself in the order, Dhoni seemed to find his touch with the bat in the recently concluded series against the Kiwis. 

Fast bowler Ashish Nehra backed Dhoni to continue playing cricket until the 2019 World Cup.

In an exclusive chat with The Times of India, Nehra said, "By the way it's time for the 2019 World Cup, Dhoni's age would close to 38, but these days age isn't a factor. Look at Pakistani players like Younis Khan and Misbah-ul-Haq. They are still playing international cricket past the age of 40. And as far as Dhoni is concerned, he is fit enough to go on till 2019. 

I don't see any reason why Dhoni should retire from international cricket. After the New Zealand ODI series, he will get more than two months to rest and come back fresh for the ODIs against England. Dhoni will be fitter in the series against England than what you saw in the series against the Kiwis,” he added.

Former selector Vikram Rathore and Former Indian team director Ravi Shastri also voiced their opinion in favour of Dhoni to play on till the next 50-over World Cup. 

"Dhoni can definitely play on if he wants to. I don't see any issue with his fitness. He is actually looking fitter than what I have seen earlier. If Nehra can come back at the age of 37, Dhoni can also do it. Remember, age is just a number," Rathore explained. 

Ravi Shastri said, "Dhoni is at par with greats like Kapil Dev, Sunil Gavaskar and Sachin Tendulkar. He is a big player and has it in him to play till 2019. He is the kind of player who won't be around if he is not able to deliver for India. He has played cricket on his own terms and will continue to do so.”

Kiran More, who was instrumental in bringing Dhoni into the Indian team back in the year 2004, backed Dhoni to keep up the good work.

"Fitness is the key issue when it comes to international cricket. Dhoni does not need to worry about that.His chances of playing till 2019 is very bright. India will need Dhoni and I am sure he is not going to walk away just like that."