New coach should understand our culture: Dhoni

Dhoni has worked with the likes of Lalchand Rajput, Australian Greg Chappell, South African Gary Kirsten, Zimbabwean Duncan Fletcher during his career before teaming up with former India skipper Ravi Shastri, who was the team director till the World T20 in April. 

With the BCCI eyeing a candidate with knowledge of Hindi as a desirable criterion, the Ranchi stumper stood by the board, saying the new coach should understand the country’s culture. “Hindi can be a criterion but not the only criteria. Language is not a concern, a coach should understand our culture,” Dhoni said while addressing a press conference before the limited overs tour to Zimbabwe. Selection committee chairman Sandeep Patil and Ravi Shastri have already thrown their hats into the ring, which promises to be an exciting challenge for the board-appointed panel to choose the next India coach.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who will lead a second string India team for the limited overs tour to Zimbabwe, said on Monday that his first challenge will be to get the batting order right. Ahead of the team’s departure on Tuesday, Dhoni, while addressing the press here, said India cannot afford to be complacent and the African minnows can pose a challenge for his rookie side. 

“Zimbabwe can be challenging at times, our challenge will be slot placing in the batting order. It will be a different experience, will be playing with many players for the first time,” Dhoni said.  Dhoni, however, put the ball on the BCCI’s court when he was asked to comment on former team director Ravi Shastri’s statement to elevate Test skipper Virat Kohli as captain in all the formats. “I enjoy my game, captaincy decision will be taken by BCCI,” he said.