MS Dhoni, who recently stepped down as skipper of India’s one-day and Twenty20 teams, still holds the key in terms of communication, spinner Ravichandran Ashwin said. Commenting on the difference in the styles of captaincy of Dhoni and Virat Kohli, Ashwin said the former skipper’s inputs as an experienced campaigner and wicket-keeper would be vital.
“The difference is in communication. Virat likes attacking, picking wickets at the cost of some runs in the middle. In terms of leadership and communication, Mahi still holds the key because he’s the ’keeper and brings invaluable experience with him, so it’s important that we take valuable tips from him and take the team forward,” Ashwin said, ahead of the first ODI against England to be played on Sunday. This will be the first game following Dhoni’s decision to step down as captain.
“It [communication] will be different because of the kind of interactions we will have before and after. When I used to play alongside Mahi, which will not happen from this game onwards, it’s almost about communicating through from top of the mark to wicket-keeper. Of course, Virat will be around in short cover. We will try to get used to those communications.”
Ashwin said he was looking forward to adjusting his game to Kohli’s aggressive style of leadership. “Virat, on occasions, can be aggressive. That’s one thing I need to try and get adjust to. Also giving those extra runs for wicket is not a bad thing to do,” he said.
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