Shikhar Dhawan, the left-handed batter, is all set to lead India in the upcoming ODI series and the southpaw opened on the series and leadership ahead of the first game to be played on November 25, Friday. Commenting on the upcoming series and on being composed most of the time, Dhawan said that it helps him to lead the team well.
Further, the southpaw added that he wants to keep the atmosphere friendly and said that his friendly nature has helped him to be a good captain for the Men in Blue. For the unversed, it was under Dhawan, India won the ODI series against West Indies in their own backyard, earlier this year.
“When you become captain, a lot of responsibilities come on you – you have to think of the whole team, how to keep the atmosphere good. I did not need to tweak too much because even as a player, I always mingle with the group easily,” Dhawan was quoted as saying by ESPNCricinfo.
“Also, my calmness, especially on the field, is a big strength as a leader. Being calm and compassionate allows me to lead well. I can then handle things aaram se [with ease] and not panic. Mistakes could happen during a match, but how to absorb that and ensure the boys are kept enthusiastic so they can get us out of pressure situations is what I have learned,” said the southpaw further.
As you play more, you get confident in the decisions: Shikhar Dhawan
Further, the Indian batter opened up on his strengths and said that being smart helped him take better decisions. Dhawan clarified on being lenient out of regard for a player, during his initial days as India’s captain and added that he had to change himself for the betterment of the team.
“My presence of mind, my smartness, my decision-making. As you play more, you get confident in the decisions you take. Earlier, there used to be instances where I would give an extra over to a bowler out of regard [for him]. But now, as I have matured, even if someone is feeling bad, I will take a decision that will help the team,” Dhawan was quoted as saying.
