Unfortunately for India, Dhoni scored 92 runs in the 2nd ODI win over SA. The total of ~ 247 , while modest, was enough to eke out a win. That 92 score was another nail in the coffin of a Rahane or a Raina or a Rayadu.
Dhoni, for the last 3.5 years, has lost the ability to finish off matches. Coming at 6, he woukd deliberately soak up dot balls and fancy his chances in the final overs. On some occasions, he would make a very easily get table run rate into a difficult one. And at times succeed.
I recall a T20 about a year ago when he came ahead of Rayadu. And did not take a single which was available. About 10 runs was needed in last over. Every run precious. And he didn’t deliver.
But India lost more than that match that day. Dhoni sent a message to Rayadu he was not good enough.
Re: Mr. Dhoni, please stop wrecking careers
Against SA in first ODI he sent Rayadu after him. And ran him out for 0.
In the ODI he has been coming in at 4. Which makes little sense since India has proper number 4 batsmen. In the 3rd ODI he came in with india at about 120 for 2. With about 5 runs per over needed chasing 270. He came ahead of Rahane who is really suited for this situation.
By the time Dhoni got out, making 47 off 61, the run rate had climbed I think to nearly 9. With close to 100 runs to win. (He would have been out for 43 off 60, but a catch was dropped tha resulted in 4 runs).
Kohli played an equally slow inning 77 off 99. It is ok for one of them to play slow. But both doing that made the easily gettable score beyond reach.
Especially since morkel steyn and Rabada were saved for last 12 overs. And 5 fielder's outside circle allowed last 10 overs.
Now as usual Dhoni will blame Rahane Raina et al for the collapse. But those who saw the match know Dhoni snuffed India's chances. And also slowed down the progress of the batsmen that were chosen for their batting. And this has become his modus oper andi, not the exception.
With respect, Mr. Dhoni, come in at 6. And don't soak up balls in the middle order. And don't destroy careers.
Re: Mr. Dhoni, please stop wrecking careers
India seriously needs a big hitter. Kohli and Dhoni were playing very slow but Kohli should gear up his inning rather to play like 38 years player.