India vs Bangladesh: MSK Prasad makes big statement on MS Dhoni’s future

Mumbai: BCCI selection panel chief MSK Prasad has made a big statement on Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s international future.

After picking India’s T20I and Test squads on Thursday (October 24) for the Bangladesh series, in Mumbai, Prasad said they are “moving on” from Dhoni and will give opportunities to youngsters.

Also read: India squads announced for Bangladesh series

Dhoni hasn’t played for India since the ICC World Cup 2019 in England and Wales in July. India lost the semi-final to New Zealand.

“Post World Cup I have been very, very clear on this that after the World Cup we have started backing Rishabh Pant and we will still back him and see that he progresses well,” Prasad said.

Also read: Here's what BCCI boss Ganguly said on Dhoni

“He might not have had the best of matches and which is what was expected of him, but we can only make a player by backing him. We are very, very confident that he will come out successful and this is a clear thought process that post World Cup we are focussing on Rishabh Pant only,” he added.

He further said, “That is what I made clear that we are moving on (from Dhoni) and giving opportunities to youngsters and see that they establish themselves in the side. With Rishabh Pant doing so well and even Sanju Samson coming into the side, I am sure you will understand our thought process.”

Sanju Samson was selected in the India T20I squad for the three-match home series against Bangladesh.

On Dhoni’s retirement, Prasad said it is his personal decision.

“That is purely his personal (choice), going into domestic cricket and getting his touch back or thoughts about retirement. We have already laid the roadmap for the future and you can see that in the way we are selecting the team,” Prasad made it clear.