Misconception that Dhoni’s India return was dependent on IPL: Chopra

One of the most awaited part of this years Indian Premier League (IPL), which currently stands suspended due to the coronavirus outbreak, was the return of M.S. Dhoni to the cricket field.

Dhoni last played in the World Cup 2019 semi-final against New Zealand and since then has been on a sabbatical. It was believed that Dhonis performance in the IPL would decide if he will be a part of Indias WT20 squad. But cricketer-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra begs to differ.

Speaking to IANS, the former India opener said that he believes it’s a huge misconception people had that Dhoni’s comeback into the Indian team would be based on his performance in the IPL.

“It’s a huge misconception that Dhoni’s comeback to the Indian team was dependent on his performance in the IPL,” Chopra said.

“If that is how we will view Dhoni as a player and his career and what he has achieved as a player, then I think we are just knocking at the wrong door because it’s not right.”

Chopra feels that if Dhoni wants to play for the Indian team again and if the team management also wants the same, it will happen.

“See, if the team wants him to play, all that will happen. But if the IPL doesn’t take place this year, the T20 World Cup doesn’t happen this year, of course he will be a year older and with him out of the cricket for more than 18 months, you can assume that you might not see him play again for India,” he pointed.

The former India batsman, however, said that looking at the present scenario, organising the T20 World Cup looks “difficult” in October-November which in turn can open a window for the 13th IPL edition and the tournament can be held even behind closed doors.

“It’s still a long shot because we don’t know how the world is going to operate. This COVID-19 pandemic is a developing story. For a tournament like the IPL, you have to ensure players’ safety.”

Indo-Asian News Service