Former India skipper MS Dhoni, who played a match-winning knock in Adelaide against Australia was seen in his ferocious best in the net session on the eve of the 3rd ODI at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Dhoni was improvising as he tried a few sweep shots as well, something that does not come to him naturally.

With two half-centuries of contrasting nature, Dhoni will certainly hold the key for India’s chances in the middle order in the series decider. He has shown that he has the game along with the experience, which makes him indispensable from the team even at 37.

Here is how Dhoni turned on his T20I mode during net session ahead of the Melbourne ODI:

https://twitter.com/nehemiahstephen/status/1085764526962864128

It was Dhoni’s 55 off 54 balls and a six of the final over helped India go over the line in a tight finish. He also built a strong partnership of 57 runs with Dinesh Karthik who along with the former captain stayed unbeaten as they carried their bats through. The Indian skipper, Virat Kohli scored his 39th ODI century which laid the platform early on in a stiff 299 chase.

ALSO READ: Sunil Gavaskar Backs MS Dhoni Despite Inconsistency

Mahendra Singh Dhoni from now on will be more like an anchor, who would “control the game till the end”, reckoned legendary Sachin Tendulkar. On the other hand, legendary Indian cricketer, Sunil Gavaskar said, “Please leave the gentleman alone”, insisting that the veteran’s value to the team cannot be calculated despite the lack of consistency.

During the post-match presentation, Kohli said, “There is no doubt that he should be a part of this team. Tonight was MS classic. He calculates the game so well. He takes the game until the end when only he knows what’s going on in his mind, and he backs himself to hit those big shots at the end.”