MS Dhoni still holds the key, says R Ashwin

Pune: India’s premier spinner R. Ashwin says Mahendra Singh Dhoni still holds the key for Indian cricket team in terms of communication and he is looking forward to adjust to Virat Kohli’s aggressive style of leadership.

“The difference is in communication. Virat likes attacking, picking wickets at the cost of some runs in the middle. In terms of leadership and communication, Mahi still holds the key because he’s the keeper and brings invaluable experience with him so it’s important that we take valuable tips from him and take the team forward,” Ashwin said as the players assembled ahead of the first ODI against England on Sunday.

“It (communication) will be different because of the kind of interactions we will have before and after. When I used to play alongside Mahi, which will not happen from this game onwards, it's almost about communicating through from top of the mark to wicket-keeper. Of course Virat will be around in short cover. We will try to get used to those communications.

“Virat on occasions can be aggressive, that’s one thing I need to try and get adjust to. Also giving those extra runs for wicket is not a bad thing to do.” Ashwin said after consistently playing the Test series against many teams, adjusting to the short format is a bit of challenge.

“It’s more of a mental switch. We played a few T20s in America and I switched pretty well. I am sure it’s going to be a challenge, next three days will be important I tried to tick as many boxes as possible when I practised in Chennai.”