KL Rahul, India’s stand-in captain for the upcoming ODI series against South Africa, is waiting for MS Dhoni’s presence at the JSCA International Stadium complex at Ranchi on Sunday. Rahul, during a media conference, could not hide his excitement over the matter as he feels Dhoni’s attendance in Sunday’s opening ODI will not only cheer up the home crowd, will also inspire the Indian team.
Rahul commented, “Obviously, we have all played under him. We have all been his fans, and we have also played alongside him. So he is a friend. It is a true happy feeling. Getting an opportunity like this, to know someone as big and as successful as him as an Indian cricketer we have all respected him as a human being as well.”
He continued, “So if he comes to watch the match, the excitement for the crowd and for us will increase even more. So yes, we’re happy. If the crowd turns up in big numbers, we will also enjoy playing here. And hopefully, we can win the game, put in a good performance, entertain the crowd, and MS Dhoni will also feel happy that we won,” he added. Since opening in 2013, the JSCA Stadium in Ranchi has hosted six ODIs, four T20Is and three Tests. In addition, it has staged 12 IPL and CLT20 matches.
Dhoni has featured in six international matches at the venue and has also attended several others as a spectator. He is expected to be present again for the first ODI, having recently hosted Indian team for dinner at his residence. Rahul said in the pre-match press conference. Rahul added that Dhoni’s presence in the stands would elevate the excitement levels for both the crowd and the players.
