The Indian chief selector, MSK Prasad has witnessed a topsy-turvy journey in the BCCI. However, he has taken a few substantial decisions during his stint with the selection committee– be it Vijay Shankar’s inclusion in the World Cup 2019 squad or giving chances to prospects like Mayank Agarwal and Prithvi Shaw.

Prasad’s reign as the chief selector also witnessed the fading of MS Dhoni from international cricket. Dhoni’s absence has been a point of discussion ever since his departure after India’s heartbreaking defeat from the semi-final of World Cup 2019 against New Zealand. The chief selector had also stated earlier that the selection committee was aiming to back Rishabh Pant and help him flourish at the international level.

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As Prasad’s tenure as BCCI’s chief selector is coming towards the end, he clarified his views regarding Dhoni’s absence from the game for more than six months now. According to Prasad, the selection committee has been focussed more on grooming the youngsters so that they can get ample opportunities to prove their worth. He also acknowledged that he himself is a big fan of MS Dhoni and the former Indian skipper will take a decision for himself.

Talking to Sportstar regarding Dhoni, Prasad said, “As far as we are concerned, we are backing youngsters and giving them as many opportunities to settle well and play long. Mahi will take a decision for himself. As a panel member, if I keep professional duty aside, I am as big a fan of Dhoni as anyone else.”

Prasad stressed on the fact that his duty as a selector is to identify new prospects who can be an asset to the national squad. He also lauded Dhoni for what he has achieved in his illustrious career. The Rachi-born wicket-keeper batsman will go down in history as one of the most successful captains that India has ever produced.

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The chief selector said, “He has achieved everything under the sun winning two World Cups, the Champions Trophy, the No. 1 Status in Tests. Nobody can question that. About his career, he will take a call. As selectors, our duty is to move on and identify the next generation of players and keep giving them chances.”