Zeecric Bureau
Wellington, April 02: India’s inspirational captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni`s participation in the third and final cricket Test against New Zealand continues to be in lieu as the team management has deferred the final decision until Friday.
Dhoni himself said that the back injury that kept him out of the second Test in Napier has improved a lot even though he was non committal on his participation.
"My back has improved a lot. But we have to see how I am before the game," Dhoni said.
"In a limited overs match, you know the maximum you can keep is 50 overs, but on a good, flat track in a Test you will have to be ready for 120 overs. I will have to see how I am tomorrow morning," he said.
In Dhoni`s absence, his deputy Virender Sehwag, who led India in Napier where the visitors came from the brink to force a draw, will take command.
Downplaying his absence Dhoni said that his absence would not weaken the team in any way.
"I am not that kind of player that the team relies on me a lot. Whether I am playing or not, will not have much impact on the team," Dhoni said.
Dhoni was wearing a support for his back at the nets even though he went through the chores to indicate that he might play the decider starting at the Basin Reserve here on Friday.
Meanwhile, Team India coach Gary Kirsten was confident that Dhoni would be fit for this game.
“No decisions have been made yet. But he is doing nicely so far. He is a fantastic player. As he provides so much to the team, it would be great to have him on board. We also feel that we have got other players who can do the job, but certainly to have MSD as a captain will be great. He offers a lot as a batsman as well.”
“He would be of great value to any team in the world. We are hoping he will be fit,” said Kirsten, before joining Karthik at the nets.
