We have to wait and see: Kohli on Dhoni’s chances of playing against Bangladesh
Indian vice-captain Virat Kohli confirmed on Tuesday that skipper MS Dhoni is recovering well from the injury he had suffered yesterday in training. However, Dhoni’s chances of playing in the opening game against Bangladesh still hang in balance with the physio yet to take a call on his fitness.
Dhoni had suffered a muscle spasm in the back during a training session yesterday, and with no wicket-keeper in the squad, Parthiv Patel was called in as a back-up. However, the skipper took part in the trophy unveiling ceremony today, but his deputy Virat Kohli came out to address the media ahead of the encounter tomorrow.
"MS is a pillar for us in the middle-order. If Parthiv comes in, we will have to make plans for the batting order," Kohli said.
Kohli, who returned to the Indian team after being rested for the T20 series against Sri Lanka, also said that a decision on the skipper's availability will be taken ahead of the match tomorrow.
"Discussion will be made, they will happen sometime today. If that situation arises (Dhoni being ruled out), then it will be obviously different from what we have been playing, but we have to wait and see, how the situation pans out," Kohli said.
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Kohli was also full of praise for pacer Jasprit Bumrah, who has been on an impressive run after his debut in Australia.
"Jasprit has been the biggest find from the Australian series. I think he has come on board and bowled with a lot of heart. He also knows how to get batsmen out.
"He's got a different action that people are finding difficult to pick at this stage, which is good for India," Kohli said.
When asked about the iconic India-Pakistan clash, which will take place on February 27, Kohli said that they treat every match equally and personally he doesn't find any difference.
"We treat every team equally and as far as I am concerned, I don't find any difference mentally. India-Pakistan clashes are always competitive, it is hyped outside, but on the field it is very normal.
Indian Test captain also lauded Mohammad Amir for making a comeback to the Pakistan national team after the ban.
I'm happy to see Amir back and wish him all the best. He's always been a top-class bowler. He's worked hard and it requires courage," Kohli said.
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