One of India’s key batsmen Virat Kohli, who suffered a foot injury in India’s first ODI against Pakistan in Chennai, would be available for selection for the must-win second match in Kolkata tomorrow, captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni said on Wednesday.
“Virat is available for selection for tomorrow’s match,” Dhoni said ahead of the second ODI at the Eden Gardens.
Kohli suffered a foot injury while bowling the 41st over of Pakistan’s run chase in the first ODI. The BCCI had said that Kohli’s injury would be monitored and a decision on his availability for the second ODI would be taken after assessing his condition.
'We need a genuine all-rounder'
Dhoni said his team was finding it increasingly difficult to win matches with part-timers and would now need a genuine all-rounder keeping in mind the recent changes in ODI rules.
He said the new ODI rules which stipulate five players to remain inside the circle for full 50 overs have created problems for a side like India who used to rely on part-timers.
“We are used to play with part-timers. Now it’s difficult for part-timers to bowl with five players inside the circle.
If there’s dew, then you don’t get turns as well. It becomes more difficult,” Dhoni said.
“With the new rules, you’ve to assess whether six batsmen are enough or seven. It’s very difficult to play with the part-timers and expect them to bowl 10 overs,” he said.
“What we’re looking at is somebody who can fill in the gap — a genuine all-rounder to bring in the balance in the side. Lower order contribution is also very important especially when you’re chasing.”
