India’s 2011 World Cup-winning coach Gary Kirsten reckons ruling out Dhoni’s participation in the 50-50 World event would be a huge mistake
Gary Kirsten (left) and MS Dhoni during 2011 World Cup in Bangalore
India's 2011 World Cup winning coach Gary Kirsten feels limited overs skipper MS Dhoni has the potential of yet another great World Cup show and relieving ‘Captain Cool’ of the ODI captaincy could be a huge mistake.
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“If you are willing to let MS Dhoni go when there might potentially be a great World Cup performance left in him, you are taking a risk,” said Kirsten.
Kirsten is in Mumbai to train youngsters as part of a five-day cricket clinic organised by Saldanha International Academy at Police Gymkhana.
“There comes a time in every player’s life when he has to consider whether he should be in the team or it’s time to move on. We will leave the decision to him,” the South Africa, southpaw added when asked whether Test captain Virat Kohli should take over the reins from Dhoni in the limited overs format.
Explaining Dhoni’s skills as a game-finisher, Kirsten said: “You just have to look at his ODI batting record as well as a finisher — it’s unsurpassed in terms of the position he bats in. So, if anyone doubts his ability, I think they would be making a great mistake.
“He is definitely the best leader I have worked with and his record for Indian cricket over the last nine-10 years speaks for itself. There is no debate on this. In my opinion, he is up there with India’s greatest captains and certainly has earned trophies for India in his time,” he said.
Kirsten, who played 101 Tests and 185 ODIs, also sent out a message to aspiring cricketers and their parents. “In cricket, you cannot guarantee results. No batsman can get a hundred every time he goes on to the crease. But through sport, a youngster can learn many values in life. Sport teaches you to be humble, it teaches you team work and the virtue of selflessness. I think cricket brings tremendous values outside of the results I think parents can gain from encouraging their kids to play cricket,” Kirsten added.
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