Shikhar Dhawan makes it clear that he’s always available to help the youngsters in the team

Shikhar Dhawan was supposed to lead the Indian team on the tour of Zimbabwe comprising three ODIs and beginning on August 18. However, the veteran opener, who also took charge of the side during the ODI series against West Indies last month, was relegated to the position of deputy captain after KL Rahul was medically cleared by the BCCI and not only became a late addition to the squad, but was also asked to captain.

Despite this change, Dhawan made it abundantly clear that he is still ready to help the youngsters in the team and answer their queries whenever possible. As the most experienced member in the squad, he is eager to put his best foot forward during the three-match series.

“I quite enjoy sharing my experience with the youngsters in the team. I first came here in 2014 (actually 2013), when Duncan Fletcher was the Indian coach. If they (youngsters) reach out to me for any suggestions, I am (always) there to answer them,” Dhawan told reporters at a media conference.

The 36-year-old is also happy that KL Rahul, who will be captaining the side, will get much needed game time and rhythm ahead of the upcoming Asia Cup later this month. Rahul has been on the sidelines since IPL 2022 and has hardly played any competitive cricket. He required surgery for sports hernia and also suffered from a bout of COVID-19 recently.

“It is very good news that KL (Rahul) is back and will be leading the side as well. He is one of the main players of this Indian team. It will be a good outing for him before the Asia Cup gets underway. I am sure he will gain a lot from this tour,” Dhawan said.

Speaking about Washington Sundar, the southpaw also expressed sadness about the situation. The all-rounder was deemed as a sure-shot starter against Zimbabwe but got ruled out of the series after injuring his left shoulder while fielding in the Royal London One Day Cup. Sundar has endured a rough spell plagued with frequent injuries lately and this is the latest in a long line of setbacks for the talented all-rounder.

“It’s sad that Washington is out. He is quite an important player for the side. But it’s part and parcel…injuries happen. Hope, he will recover soon,” Dhawan further added.