#6 MS Dhoni
When it comes to the wicketkeeper’s slot in the ODI team of the year, Quinton de Kock and Niroshan Dickwella were in contention. But de Kock bats at the top and the opener’s slots are already occupied by the 2 Indians. Dickwella’s contributions weren’t that impactful for his team and hence we looked at other option. Going by the stats and the contribution in the team’s performances this year, MS Dhoni finds a place at No.6.
His selection is bound to raise a few eyebrows because he was criticised by many due to the fall in his hitting abilities but quietly, the Indian veteran has produced great numbers that answer all the questions. He scored 788 runs at an average of 60.61 which is far better than his career average of 51.55.
He might not be finishing the games as he used to yet he has proved time and time again that there is no one better to control the innings if the top order fails. This year itself, he has bailed the side out of trouble and won matches for India a number of times. Additionally, he might not be the same batsman anymore yet his keeping skills haven’t diminished one bit. He has inflicted 39 dismissals this year including 13 stumpings which are by far the most by any keeper and it’s safe to say that he is currently the best with the gloves in the format.
Dhoni’s Batting Stats in 2017
Matches | Innings | Runs | Highest Score | Average | 100s | 50s | Strike Rate |
29 | 22 | 788 | 134 | 60.61 | 1 | 6 | 84.73 |