M. S. Dhoni: A calming influence in Indian cricket

Virat Kohli still has some way to go before replacing M. S. Dhoni as skipper

Yes, Virat Kohli is being groomed to be the heir to the throne that rightly belongs to Dhoni at the moment. Yes, the IPL is a splendid platform for youngsters to stand up and take the opportunity to lead the best cricketers in the world. But then, why is there a need for a new captain, when you have someone like MSD leading his troops to unprecedented heights in world cricket?

The ongoing tri-series between India, Sri Lanka and West Indies took a shocking turn when the Men in Blue lost to the hosts by a narrow margin. Dhoni was in the dressing room for a major part of that match, due to a hamstring injury. Vice-captain Virat Kohli did quite well to quickly step up to the task.

But then look at what happened today. Nobody is judging Virat’s leadership abilities here, but with Dhoni sitting out, the Indians were looking out of sorts when Upul Tharanga and Mahela Jayawardene started piling up a heap of runs. On the rare occasion when the bowlers could have got these two out, the fielders let them down. 328. The body language of the team said it all.

Did they bowl badly today? Yes, the stats would suggest so. But more than anything, it was the team’s inability to perform as a unit that let them down in the field. Was Dhoni sorely missed? Absolutely. No scope for doubt there.

Dhoni’s mere presence on the field (and in the batting order) reminds me of the way the Indian team and fans alike looked at Sachin Tendulkar (in his prime). The aforementioned statement certainly seems like a simile, but it isn’t intended to be a direct comparison in any way whatsoever. But one just cannot deny the respect and the position that ‘Captain Cool’ commands in the team. Indian players look up to Dhoni for directions. In fact, ‘senior’ bowlers in the current squad, like Ishant Sharma and Ravichandran Ashwin, often need to be spoon-fed by their captain. That extra push that’s needed – captain Dhoni provides it.

Presence of mind, tremendous power, composure, commendable temperament, spirit, unlimited ability to withstand extreme pressure – you name it, the man has it. A mature, responsible cricketer who can bat anywhere in the order. An outstanding, selfless, successful leader. When he’s out there, things seem under control.

India needs him. And no matter how much you criticize him, admit it, you want him at the helm of Indian cricket.