‘A Big Mistake', Says Dinesh Karthik After Omitting MS Dhoni From His All-Time XI
Renowned Indian wicket-keeper batsman Dinesh Karthik has expressed regret for failing to include former captain MS Dhoni in the all-time Indian team he selected recently. Karthik stated that leaving out one of modern cricket's finest glovemen was a “blunder” on his part. While announcing India's greatest playing XI spanning generations on Independence Day, Karthik had picked legendary names like Tendulkar, Kohli and Dravid. However, he puzzlingly opted to not choose Dhoni, whose unparalleled achievements as captain have placed him among the game's greats.
In his own words, Karthik acknowledged that overlooking Dhoni was a “big mistake” given his all-format dominance and unsurpassed success for India. The commentator clarified that in hindsight, the peerless wicket-keeper batter would undoubtedly feature at number 7 in the line-up as well as lead the star-studded side. Karthik praised Dhoni as a “lock” for any national team across formats owing to his magical talent and remarkable accomplishments. He emphasized that if he could redo his team selection, including the inspirational “Thala” Dhoni would be his sole amendment.
With over 17,000 international runs and record stumpings/dismissals, the cool-headed Dhoni remains Indian cricket's most successful captain, guiding the team to multiple global trophies. While Karthik's initial XI omitting a leader of Dhoni's class surprised many, his prompt admission of the blunder and contrition leaves no doubt about the great man's undisputed place among the best to represent the country.
