Oval Test: MS Dhoni skips practice for more rest despite big break

Two days before crucial fifth and final Test against England at The Oval, India skipper skips practice session despite an extended break after fourth Test thrashing at Old Trafford

London: It's a well-known fact that skipper MS Dhoni likes to take charge of India's nets sessions, so much so that players can be seen seeking his permission for most things they do during practice.


MS Dhoni during a training session at Lord’s last month. Pic/Getty Images 

So it was surprising to see Dhoni give a crucial practice session the miss when India turned up for their nets at the Oval yesterday morning. While everyone was curious to know the reason for his absence, media manager Dr RN Baba said that the skipper was simply taking rest.

Now, this sounded pretty strange, given that India lost the fourth Test at Old Trafford on August 9 (inside three days), meaning the squad had already enjoyed a good three-day break by Wednesday.

Also, one would have expected the leader of the side to be in the forefront of the proceedings, given that India are 1-2 down and battling to square the five-match series here.

It later emerged that people had seen Dhoni leave the team hotel with a bodyguard, which meant that the possibility of him taking rest was remote.

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