Rahul ideal replacement for Dhoni at T20 World Cup, says Gambhir

New Delhi - If the IPL does not happen, then MS Dhoni's chances for a comeback look dim, said Gambhir

Former cricketer Gautam Gambhir believes it will become very difficult for MS Dhoni to make a comeback to Team India for the T20 World Cup if the 13th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) doesn't take place this year because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

"If the IPL does not happen this year, then it will become very difficult for MS Dhoni to make a comeback. On what basis can he be selected since he's not been playing for the last one or one and a half years," Gambhir said while speaking on Star Sports' 'Cricket Connected' show.

"If the IPL does not happen, then MS Dhoni's chances for a comeback look dim. Ultimately, you are representing India, so whoever dishes out the best performance and can win the match for India should play for the team," he added.

Dhoni has not played for India since the 2019 World Cup where the Men in Blue had to a face a heart-wrenching defeat against New Zealand in the semifinals.

Speaking to IANS, head coach Ravi Shastri had earlier said that Dhoni's comeback to the national team will depend on his performance in the IPL which currently stands suspended and the chances it being played in the near future are very grim amid the coronavirus pandemic.

According to Gambhir, KL Rahul would be apt replacement for Dhoni in the T20 World Cup slated to be played in Australia in October-November.

"The apt replacement for Dhoni could be KL Rahul. Ever since he has donned the wicketkeeper's gloves in white-ball cricket, I've seen his performance, both batting and wicketkeeping.

"Obviously, his keeping is not as good as Dhoni's, but if you are looking at T20 cricket, Rahul's a utility player, can keep and bat at No. 3 or 4," he said.

The BJP lawmaker further said the decision of retirement, however, remains with Dhoni as that is his personal choice when to bid adieu to the sport.