Not just with skills, MS Dhoni stays relevant in other aspects too

After Virat Kohli took over the reins of Team India, there was speculation that the end was near for MS Dhoni. But the ever-evolving Mahi has not only kept himself fit but also proved his usefulness by guiding this young team with his experience and making them street-smart. That way, Dhoni has kept himself relevant in a team led by the mercurial Kohli whose heart beats for young and aggressive players like Hardik Pandya, Manish Pandey and Jasprit Bumrah.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni

When Kohli took over in all three formats, it was thought it was a matter of time before the former skipper would be shunted out in favour of a young, talented wicketkeeper like Rishabh Pant. That's the time questions were raised over Dhoni's continued presence in the team as he was considered over the hill and there were doubts whether he would last till the 2019 World Cup. His form too was put under the scanner. It was only when he proved his worth, be it with gloves behind the stumps, with the bat or guiding not only the young players but also skipper Kohli at times, that has made Dhoni relevant in the team. With the importance and respect he has received in the Kohli-Shastri regime, Dhoni has emerged as a vital cog in India's strategy in preparation for the 2019 World Cup.

For almost a decade Dhoni's influence on Team India had been huge. So when Kohli took over as captain in all three formats, he clearly defined the roles and responsibilities between him and the former skipper. Kohli made it crystal clear that he valued Dhoni as a player and that his knowledge will make the former captain a great asset for the future. "But it will be I who would take all the decisions and responsibilities," Kohli had said. Dhoni may not be at the helm anymore, but his influence and utility remain undiminished. There is not a single player who does not value his advice. The way he showed the presence of mind in running out Tom Latham at a crucial stage that led to a win in the third and deciding ODI against New Zealand at Kanpur on Sunday makes him almost indispensable till he decides to call it a day.