Former India captain Kapil Dev, who led the nation to its first ever World Cup glory, picked Mahendra Singh Dhoni as the “greatest player India has ever produced.” Praising the wicket-keeper for his extraordinary contribution to Indian cricket, Dev said that Dhoni always put nation’s interest before his own and therefore should be given the due credit for it.
“MS Dhoni is the greatest player India has ever produced. He played 90 Tests and then said let’s give a chance to the youngsters. Dhoni did that and hats off to him for putting his country before himself,” the 1983 World Cup-winning captain told India Today.
Kapil was referring to India’s 2014 tour to Australia when after suffering defeats in the opening two Test matches and the third ending in a draw, Dhoni stepped down as captain of the Indian Test handing the mantle to Virat Kohli.
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Both Kapil and Dhoni have led India to World Cup victories in 1983 and 2011 respectively. But Dhoni is regarded to be India’s best-limited overs captain as under his leadership the subcontinent side won the 2007 World T20, World Cup in 2011 and the ICC Champions Trophy in 2013. Dhoni remains the only captain to all three titles as a skipper.
He will be seen in action when India face Australia in a three-match bilateral series, starting from January 12.
With India’s batting faltering in the opening two Test matches against the Kangaroos, Kapil was asked if he would like to give them some tips ahead of the third Test match at MCG on Boxing Day. But the all-rounder replied saying that he is ready to help any player seeking his help but they will have to approach him.
“I don’t go to them – I have learnt this from Sunnybhai… I won’t go to them unless they need me. When they become big players and play for India, it is their responsibility. No former cricketer would not want to help. We all want to help them – but they have to ask.. If they think we can help, no one will say no. But I don’t think we should go to their dressing room because they have their own ways and technique.”
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