India’s Test captain Virat Kohli has created a flutter by blaming “doubtful decision-making” and lack of clarity for the debacle in Bangladesh, a statement which is being interpreted as an attack on beleaguered ODI skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s leadership.
Kohli, who took over as Test captain from Dhoni after his sudden retirement from the longer format of the game late last year, did not take any names nor did he elaborate on his statement on decision making.
“They (Bangladesh) have played some really good cricket and honestly we have been sort of doubtful in our decision making and that shows on the field,” Kohli said during a pre- match interaction with official broadcasters Star Sports ahead of the third and final ODI here.
India eked out a consolation win last night after the World Cup semi-finalists had conceded an unassailable 2-0 lead to the hosts.
“As I said, credit to them for the way they played but where we lacked in the first two games was not being able to express ourselves with clarity of mind,” the 26-year-old batsman said.
“I don’t need to say this in an interview, I mean, cricket watches or experts can watch, you know, guys not sure enough to express themselves properly.”
Kohli’s comment has come a day after premier spinner Ravichandran Ashwin strongly backed Dhoni, saying that he was willing to die on the field for his captain. Another senior player, Suresh Raina, had also lent his support for Dhoni.
Kohli’s comments have also raised speculation about a possible rift within the ODI team with the Chennai Super Kings players backing Dhoni to the hilt.
However, the player insisted that there was no rift in the dressing room.
“The atmosphere has been what it used to be in the past. We do lose a few, but we win more”, he said.
India restored some pride with a consolation 77-run win last night to prevent the spirited hosts from securing a famous 3-0 series whitewash.
