Would NZ Skipper Williamson Have Played Dhoni in His WC Team?

Here’s what he had to say.

Williamson addressed the press conference after New Zealand beat India in the first semifinal of the 2019 World Cup.

(Photo: ICC)

New Zealand defeated India by 18 runs to make an entry into the 2019 World Cup final – their second consecutive final, after the one against Australia in 2015.

In the post-match press conference, NZ skipper Kane Williamson addressed the reporters and weighed in on the various aspects.

Interestingly, one of the reporters asked Williamson if he would have played MS Dhoni in the playing XI had he been the Indian captain.

Williamson started answering his question on a lighter note. “He is not eligible to play for New Zealand, but he is a world class player.”

“His experience at this level and in these occasions is so important. His contribution today, yesterday and throughout the tournament was extremely important. That partnership with Jadeja who came in and hit the ball the best among both teams was very, very valuable. He is a world class player.”

Kane Williamson, Captain, New Zealand Cricket team

Taking a dig at the reporter Williamson then asked “Is he looking to change nationalities, because we will consider that if we have to.”

Reports of MS Dhoni’s retirement started doing the rounds before the start of the semifinals. There were reports that India’s last game in this World Cup would be the last for the former Indian skipper.

However, Indian skipper Virat Kohli in his press conference has not given any final word on this development. "No he hasn't told us anything as of now”, said Kohli replying to the question on Dhoni’s retirement.