4 Wicket Keepers who could be an apt replacement for MS Dhoni
Coach Ravi Shastri has categorically stated that MS Dhoni will play the 2019 World Cup. But under a hypothetical situation, assuming that MSD decides to hang his boots today, let us see some probable candidates who might replace him.
For the past 13 years or so, MS Dhoni has been a colossal enigma for the Indian team. The fact that he could easily fit into the roles of a captain, batsman, and a wicketkeeper makes his mere presence a huge boon for the team. However, every great cricketer has a shelf life, and as the clock keeps on ticking, MSD is soon reaching the fag end of his career.
As the talismanic Ranchi keeper's moment of bidding adieu is not far away, it is imperative for the BCCI selectors to scout for an apt replacement. Even though there are some exceptionally talented keepers out there, it would be credulous on one's part to believe that there is a readymade replacement for MSD. But the selectors have their task cut, (i.e) to zero in on the best possible replacement for Dhoni in the limited overs formats.
Here we have a look at 4 highly talented candidates on whom the selectors might invest their confidence and who could prove to be an effective replacement.
#1 Dinesh Karthik
Dinesh Karthik has been hanging around in Indian Cricketing circles since the year 2004. That he made his international debut before MSD but could never cement his position in the squad speaks volumes about the latter's dominance as a keeper-batsman.
However, the Tamil Nadu batsman appears to be the most preferred replacement under immediate circumstances as he has already cemented his place in the limited overs squad over the past few months with his stellar domestic performances. In the recent Nidahas trophy final against Bangladesh, Karthik carved a niche for himself as he managed to pull a rabbit out of the hat and took team India to an incredible victory from an almost impossible situation, an innings that would have inspired confidence in selectors to consider him as a potential finisher.
His stature only increased after his anointment as KKR skipper, an indication of the team management's trust in his abilities. Another factor in Karthik's favour is the fact that he is technically sound against quality bowling lineups, something that he had proved way back in 2007 in England.
The only point which might go against Karthik is his age. He is on the wrong side of 30's and is not getting any younger. But if the selectors decide to go with current form and not with age, Karthik might soon find himself in the driver's seat.