Stand-in skipper KL Rahul has stated that MS Dhoni will be present for India’s first ODI of the three-match series against South Africa on Sunday, November 30, at the JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi.
The Men in Blue approach the ODI series seeking to rebound from a devastating 2-0 Test loss to South Africa. With Shubman Gill sidelined due to injury, Rahul has been given leadership duties. Meanwhile, senior batsmen Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have returned to the format.
A few days before the match, Kohli, Rishabh Pant, and Ruturaj Gaikwad went to Dhoni’s house for supper. The reunion was even more special when Dhoni personally drove Kohli back to the team hotel.
Rahul announced before of the match that MS Dhoni would be watching from the stands.
“Obviously, we have all played under him. We have all been his fans, and we have also played alongside him. So he is a friend. And to know someone like MS, you know, what can I say — it’s a really happy feeling. Getting an opportunity like this, to know someone as big and as successful as him as an Indian cricketer we have all respected him as a human being as well,” Rahul said in the pre-match press conference.
The excitement for the crowd and for us will increase even more: KL Rahul
Rahul further added that the legendary skipper’s presence in the stands would increase the excitement levels for both the crowd and the players. He also said that if the team manages to win, both Dhoni and the crowd will be delighted.
“So if he comes to watch the match, the excitement for the crowd and for us will increase even more. So yes, we’re happy. If the crowd turns up in big numbers, we will also enjoy playing here. And hopefully, we can win the game, put in a good performance, entertain the crowd, and MS Dhoni will also feel happy that we won,” he added.
India
