Tuesday 21st October 2008

Akram: Let Dhoni lead in Tests now
Former Pakistan skipper Wasim Akram feels it is time for wicketkeeper MS Dhoni to start leading the Indian side regularly.
Akram, speaking exclusively to Mobile ESPN, said: "Dhoni has got a hang of it. Let him be the captain now. He did a wonderful job of leading the side in Mohali."
The cricketer-turned-commentator said Anil Kumble has had his time and there is not much cricket left for him.
"How long can Kumble play now? At max one year? I would certainly support Kumble's decision to retire now."
"India are doing well with a young team. That's the way it should be. It is Dhoni's time now."
Akram feels the Indian media, will for obvious reasons, heap praises on the team for an outstanding win against Australia. But he cautioned the team to stay focussed.
"Look, Australia are a dangerous team. They will come back hard. India need to concentrate with two Tests left. They should not relax now."
"India must go out there to win both the Tests. If they go out and play for a draw, they will lose. It is as simple as that."
The highest wicket-taker in ODI's said the Indian team looked very good out in the middle.
"The team looked superb. The players gelled well, looked excited and looked well settled for a series that is one of the most exciting in the world."
Akram said the wicket in Mohali catered to India's strength: "I had said before the match that India should prepare wickets to suit their strength. That is what exactly happened. The pitch was flat and started turning from the third day."
Akram seemed genuinely pleased with the way Sourav Ganguly fought back to get amongst the runs again: "Ganguly played a superb innings. It was a dream come true for him, playing the way he is in his last series."
The stylish former all-rounder opined India have shown that they can be the best in the world. He was particularly impressed with India's bowlers, saying the pacers have finally mastered the art of reverse swing.
India clash against Australia in Feroz Shah Kotla in Delhi from October 29 for the third and penultimate Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy