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KARACHI: Pakistan's cricket community has praised the leadership qualities of Indian captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni and described him as the main architect of India's World Cup win.
“India became the worthy winners of the 2011 World Cup and Dhoni led his charges with great charisma,” former captain and ex-chief selector Aamir Sohail said.
“At no stage in the last three crucial matches of India did he commit any major mistake and more often than not he managed to respond in the best for his team,” he said.
Aamir pointed out that Dhoni promoting himself in the batting order in the final was a master stroke.
“Dhoni's decision to promote himself up the order was a master stroke because two left handers could have allowed Sri Lanka to control the game,” he pointed out.
Former wicketkeeper-batsman Moin Khan was all praise for the Indian captain and also singled out Man of the Tournament Yuvraj Singh for his performances in the World Cup.
“I think India were rightly put down as title favourites because of their strong batting line-up. And they lived up to their favourites tag and their batsmen really came through in the last few games,” said Moin, a former captain.
“To chase 275 in a final was mentally a very tough job and the Indian batsmen showed why they are the best in the business today,” he said.
Moin noted that Yuvraj had really matured and shone through in the World Cup.
“Personally, I find him to be a very exciting and class player who fits the description of an impact-player perfectly. He really came through for India and he deserves all credit for the way he set the example with his bowling, batting and fielding,” said Moin.
Pakistan's former wicketkeeper-batsman Rashid Latif said that the Indians had shown character by winning the final despite losing their two most dangerous players Virender Sehwag and Sachin Tendulkar early.
“The rest of the batsmen showed how much they wanted to win this World Cup and I can only say that India is lucky to have a top leader in Dhoni who leads by example and flair.”
Rashid said he was happy for Tendulkar being part of a World Cup winning team.
“I think the way he has served Indian cricket, the team really gave him the perfect gift by winning the World Cup.”—PPI
