Syed Kirmani, the former India wicketkeeper, has criticised the wicketkeeping technique of Mahendra Singh Dhoni. He said Dhoni lacked the "copybook basics" of a wicketkeeper and said the flaws were not attracting attention because the Indian team has been in top form in recent months.
"He is improving with every match, though he is not technically sound behind the wicket." IANS quoted Kirmani as saying. "He doesn't have the copybook basics of a wicketkeeper. Dhoni does not have the natural instincts of an athlete, which is very important for a wicketkeeper."
Kirmani, 59, played 88 Tests for India in a 12-year career that started in 1976 and is one of India's greatest wicketkeepers. He was also concerned about Dhoni's long-term future as a wicketkeeper. "No player remains the same after four years. The agility and reflex of a player diminishes with age," said Kirmani. "The body and muscles start wearing out. And Dhoni is playing all three forms of the game round the year."