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This article was first published 12 years ago

Dhoni gets his way with BCCI backing

Last updated on: March 2, 2012 06:23 IST


The selectors have wielded the axe on Virender Sehwag, and Gautam Gambhir has made way for Virat Kohli in the vice-captain's seat, but is no talk, no reaction over these changes within the team.

However, the ripple effects of these decisions are discernible, as the Indian cricket team waits in suspense over whether they will make it to the finals of the tri-series. The team kept away from the media, and, in fact, did not even practice. The team management was unwilling to comment on the clear divisions within the team.

Sources within the team said it was clear that Delhi boys -- Sehwag and Gambhir -- have been sidelined because of their evident differences with skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni which they have aired publicly.

Sehwag had declined a joint press meet with Dhoni


Sehwag had questioned Dhoni's statement that seniors like him are slow in the field while Gambhir had told the media that India should have won its match against Australia earlier than the last over in which Dhoni scored the winning runs.

Clearly Dhoni has had his way against Sehwag and Gambhir, also ensuring that players like Suresh Raina and Ravindra Jadeja, considered close to him, are not axed despite indifferent performances.

Reports persist that Sehwag had declined to hold a joint press conference with Dhoni last week to deny reports of a rift between them, but no one is willing to go on record.

Tendulkar's inclusion for Asia Cup not warranted


Sehwag, who was officially 'rested' for the Asia Cup with regard to his fitness, is ready to play in the best-of-three finals against Australia should India qualify. That will depend on whether Australia beats Sri Lanka on Friday.

Those who feel that Sehwag has been done in point out that if he was not fit he should have been back home now. If his poor form was an issue then Sachin Tendulkar's inclusion for Asia Cup is not warranted.

That Dhoni enjoys the strong backing of the BCCI is clear from the fact that he has emerged even stronger despite India losing eight consecutive overseas Test matches in England and Australia since June last under his captaincy.

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