It’s unfortunate how Dhoni is made a scapegoat, says Sunil Gavaskar

Dhoni has found critics divided on opinions about his future in the Indian side, after his display against New Zealand in Rajkot. The storm started when VVS Laxman and Ajit Agarkar came up front to express their concern about his place in the side and whether India needed him in the T20 format.

“I still feel it's time for MS Dhoni to give youngsters a chance in T20 format,” Agarkar asked, “… Just as a batsman, will India miss him in T20 cricket?” Laxman had stated.

However, Sunil Gavaskar has come to Dhoni’s rescue stating that the former skipper is being made a scapegoat, only because he has crossed the threshold of 30 as critics are overlooking every other thing that went wrong in the game.

“We do not look at the guys under 30, who actually haven't done anything but we tend to sort of overlook that. So, we will not have to look at the failure of others in the same innings. Hardik Pandya getting out for one by not picking up a googly. We will not look at that,” Gavaskar said.

“We will not look at the fact that openers did not give the usual start. We will only point a finger at MS Dhoni. So that is unfortunate. So, that is India for you."

The 68-year-old also had a say on Dhoni’s future in T20 cricket stating that regular game time will keep Dhoni match fit and on his toes while leaving him for only for the ODI format would be a huge risk.

“For a cricketer, it helps if he plays continuously. Because you are in rhythm and in the groove, most of the time even if you might not be taking wickets as a bowler or scoring runs as a batsman,” said Gavaskar.

“Having actual games and match practice is very important. Match practice is fantastic not only for the physical aspect but also for the mental aspect. So, clearly the more cricket anybody plays it is better for him."