According to Team India head coach Ravi Shastri, Mahendra Singh Dhoni has to take the decision on his own to return to the field. If they want to play, they have to inform the selectors about this. Shastri also said that he did not meet Dhoni after the World Cup 2019. In an interview to ‘The Hindu’ newspaper, Shastri described Wriddhiman Saha as the best wicketkeeper in the world. On Rishabh Pant, he said that he is still young and he has a lot of time.
On the question asked about Mohammed Shami, Shastri said, “He made a great comeback after recovering from personal problems. As a batsman I would never like to face him. He is a very talented and hardworking fast bowler. If a fast bowler takes five wickets in the fourth innings in India, then it is a really great performance.” To a question on Jaspreet Bumrah and Hardik Pandya, Team India head coach said, “Bumrah is worried. He is a prized and match winner. His surgery is under consideration. They play all three formats. We are also thinking about the load on them. Pandya’s surgery was successful. We want them to play all formats. Things will clear up about his fitness in two weeks.”
Shastri is happy to play Rohit Sharma as an opener in Test cricket. About this, he said, “Opening is not easy. This is a case of Mindset. Both Virender Sehwag and Rohit are dangerous and destructive batsmen. Those who like to dominate the bowlers. I will never like this batsman like Rohit sitting on the bench. Rohit and Virat also discussed about the opening in the West Indies.”
The head coach cautiously responded to Dhoni. Said, “He is one of our all time great players. He has to decide on the return. He did not meet after the World Cup. I don’t think he played cricket after the World Cup. First they have to start playing. The selectors will have to inform it.” Shastri described Saha as the best wicketkeeper in the world. Pant was also praised. Said, “Rishabh has scored Test centuries in Australia and England. He is very young and should improve his keeping. Shreyas is doing well at number four.”