5 wicket-keepers who could replace MS Dhoni on Zimbabwe tour
India are scheduled to play three T20 and three One Day International’s during their tour of Zimbabwe next month, from June 11 to 20. The BCCI selectors have expressed their desire to rest the senior cricketers of the Indian team – including Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan for the upcoming tour.
The selectors want to give youngsters an opportunity to showcase their skills and prove their worth during the tour. However, the selectors want Dhoni to lead the side during the tour, as he will not play any limited overs cricket until next March. The Indian limited overs captain has also been given the option to either play the tour or opt out of it.
In case, Dhoni decides to opt out, here is a list of 5 wicket-keeper batsmen who could replace him:
#1 Wriddhiman Saha
Wriddhiman Saha is playing for Kings XI Punjab in this edition of the Indian Premier League. Saha is also currently the regular wicket-keeper of the Indian Test squad, since Dhoni’s retirement from the longest format of the game.
The 31-year-old has had a decent season in the IPL so far, scoring 267 runs in 11 matches at an average of 26.70, and a highest score of 56. He has scored two fifties for Punjab this year, and has been quick behind the stumps taking four catches and two stumpings.
Saha has also had an impressive domestic career for Bengal, scoring 2693 runs in 88 innings at an average of 42.74 in List A cricket. His 123 catches and 15 stumpings, clearly reflect his wicket-keeping skills.
The right-hander will provide depth in the batting, and strike a balance in the side with his clever wicket-keeping skills.