After quite a buzz following rumours of MS Dhoni’s retirement, a BCCI source had clarified that Dhoni will continue with team India. But, from now 38-year old is not the first choice wicket-keeper for the team. Rishabh Pant to take over the main keeper’s duties while Dhoni will be part of the team to groom Pant in transitioning phase. Now ahead of the West Indies tour Dhoni has decided to join Parachute regiment.
Dhoni Joining Para Regiment
MS Dhoni has informed BCCI that he will be unavailable for the upcoming West Indies tour in August. He is joining the para regiment of Territorial Army for the next two months. In 2011, Dhoni was conferred with the honorary rank of Lt. Colonel in the parachute regiment of Territorial Army. Before in 2015, Dhoni trained with the para brigade and completed his first Parachute jump at 1250 feet height.
Dhoni had committed joining the parachute regiment even before the 2019 World Cup. On Saturday, a BCCI official clarified the three things. One, Dhoni is not retiring yet. Two, Dhoni has made the commitment of serving in the regiment before World cup and he will be unavailable for two months. Three, BCCI has made Virat Kohli and chief selector MSK Prasad aware of Dhoni’s decision.
India’s tour of West Indies will begin with 3-T20 match series starting 3 August. Virat Kohli who before reported to be rested for ODI and T20I series will lead the team in the whole tour. The selection committee will pick the team on 21st July. Some new faces may get the chance in this tour.
In West Indies tour, all eyes will be on Rishabh Pant. 21-year old wicket-keeper is being looked as Dhoni’s successor. Expectations are very high from him as he has done quite well in his short career and now selectors are seeing him as the main keeper.