MS Dhoni might play for India A against England before the ODI series
India's limited overs skipper, MS Dhoni is likely to turn up for India A in what will be much-needed match practice before the ODI series against England.
Dhoni, who last played an ODI series against New Zealand has had no game time and this was a major concern going forward. Unlike the previous year, when he turned up to play for Jharkhand before the series against Australia, Dhoni had no such opportunities this year as the Vijay Hazare begins almost a month after the ODI series.
The touring England side will play a 3-match One Day and Twenty20 series, and are scheduled to play warm-up matches against an India A on 10 and 12 January at the CCI ground in Mumbai.
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The Indian skipper has been training with the Jharkhand Ranji Team which has qualified for the knockouts. The fact that Dhoni has retired from Test cricket makes it tough for him and the team to accommodate him the playing XI in the Ranji team. However, he has been appointed the mentor and takes his training very seriously.
JSCA secretary Rajesh Verma has already made it clear that the question of Dhoni turning up for the Ranji team does not arise.
Young wicket-keeper sensation Rishabh Pant who has been in sizzling hot form in the season could also be roped in the squad, and thus it would be interesting to see who keeps wickets in the game.
Dhoni had a fairly productive ODI series against New Zealand, although he was nowhere close to his best. His ability to finish off games had faded off, and the man would love to return to his best in the upcoming series.
The fact that India goes into the Champions Trophy after these 3 matches makes it imperative for Dhoni to find his groove as the team needs a fit and firing Dhoni when they walk out to defend their title.
England have already announced their ODI squad. Regular captain Eoin Morgan and opener Alex Hales make a return to the team after having skipped the series in Bangladesh owing to security concerns. Ben Duckett, who has struggled in the series was left out of the squad. Joe Root, who was rested for the Bangladesh ODI makes a comeback and will walk out at number 4.
The first of the 3 ODIs commences on January 15 at Pune followed by games in Cuttack and Kolkata.
This will be a followed by a 3-match T20I series.
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