India’s wicketkeeper-batsman MS Dhoni will be rested for the remaining two ODIs of the five-match series against Australia, confirmed Sanjay Bangar, India’s batting coach on Friday.
Bangar broke the news to the reporters when asked if there would be any changes for the remaining two games.
“Some changes will be there because Mahi is not playing the last two. He’s taking rest after this so he won’t play. So there’ll be a place left vacant by him,” Bangar said.
Rishabh Pant is the other wicketkeeper in the Indian squad and is all set replace Dhoni in the playing XI as India look to fine-tune their squad before the World Cup starts in England and Wales in May.
India will also have a keen eye on seam bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who is back in the squad for the remaining Australia ODIs. He will replace Mohammed Shami, who was hit on the leg in his follow through during the third match.
Shami completed his spell but since he will be sharing the new ball with Jasprit Bumrah in England, it is natural to give him precautionary rest.
The ODI series stands at 2-1 in favour of India with the 4th game set to take place in Mohali on Sunday. While the home team will look to seal the series, Aussies will hope to set up a decider in the final game at Delhi.