Veteran wicketkeeper-batsman Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s indifferent form has come under the scanner in recent times but India vice-captain Rohit Sharma on Thursday backed him to the hilt, saying he would play a pivotal role in the World Cup later this year.

Rohit said besides his finishing abilities, Dhoni’s mere presence lent calmness to the team, especially youngsters, and that would be crucial in a big tournament like the World Cup, which starts on May 30 in England.

“He has captained India for so many years and been successful. So him being around with the team always is helpful. He is like a guiding light around the group,” he said.
Dhoni’s much-vaunted finishing skills are under scrutiny but Rohit said the former captain had it in him to continue being useful with the bat.

batting down the order, getting us through the line, his finishing touch is very important and he has finished so many games for us. His calmness and advice, what he thinks about the game and what we should do right now is very important. “His presence around the group is a massive factor for us,” said the 31-year-old right-handed batsman.

Rohit said young bowlers like Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav could benefit from Dhoni’s presence behind the stumps.“Chahal and Kuldeep are both doing really well, so somebody like Dhoni standing behind the stumps and helping those guys about what the batsman is trying to do, it makes a huge difference, I think.