ICC World Cup | Ideal position for MS Dhoni would be five or six, says Suresh Raina

Despite India looking a very strong side in the ODI format as has been evident from their performances against Australia in the ongoing series, there have been a lot of things remaining to be sorted out ahead of the extravaganza in May. And Dhoni’s batting position has been leading that list. The former skipper has been hot and cold batting in the middle and lower order giving the management headache about whether to take the field with a cover for him or not. The 38-year-old recently showed that he still had the finishing skills and Raina is of the opinion that it could still be an asset for the side at this year's World Cup down the order.

"For MS, the ideal position would be number five or six. He is such a keen reader of the game and brings years of experience. When required he can build up an innings and his finishing skills are unmatched," said Raina, reported Reuters.

Ambati Rayudu has seemingly been a temporary answer to India’s number four conundrum at the moment, although the suggestion of pushing Dhoni up a place or Virat Kohli coming one position down have been still doing the rounds. Raina also echoed the same.

"I think number three or four should be good (for Kohli). If the top order topples quickly, we need someone like Kohli to keep it together," he said.

With the World Cup just three months away, the prediction game has started with England and India apparently the huge favourites for pundits. However, Raina has also put in Australia, Windies, and New Zealand as the sides to watch out for but has also praised India team’s balance.

"For me, the most balanced team will win the World Cup. English conditions are helpful for the seamers but in recent years we have seen spinners also do well. Last year when I was playing against Ireland and England, our wrist spinners did really well. Team India is shaping up really well in this regard, a healthy mix of youth and experience. And a pace attack that is bowling beautifully in all conditions. No grey areas as such," said Raina.

With no international cricket action around the corner, Raina’s last chance to have a go at the World Cup in this IPL, where he would be donning the CSK jersey again. And the highest run-getter of the league shed some light on his preparations ahead of the two-month long tournament.

"I have a mix of activities that I do, I am currently doing a lot of high intensity workouts in the gym, followed by strength and conditioning sessions. I'm at the nets three-four times a week. The Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (India's domestic Twenty20 competition) has given me some match practise before the IPL. As an Indian player my job is to work hard and hope for the best."