Dhoni must play in 2019 World Cup – Robin Singh

Dhoni is set to feature in his fourth World Cup, but has struggled for form of late with the bat. In 2018, Dhoni has averaged just 25, with no half-centuries – a poor return when compared to his overall career average of 50.

The Chennai Super Kings batsman was recently dropped from the T20I series against West Indies, and also missed out on a place in the side for the drawn T20I series against Australia.

Nevertheless, Singh - who played 136 ODIs - believes that India should stick by the former captain, who famously helped India to World Cup glory in 2011, hitting a six off of Nuwan Kulasekara to trigger jubilant celebrations in Mumbai.

Speaking to Sport360, Singh said: “Dhoni should be there (at the World Cup). Those who were given opportunities have not stamped their authority.”

Alongside India, Singh identified the host nation as a side to watch out for next summer.

“India are one of the front-runners. England are a very good side, they have been playing very good cricket. In their conditions they are extremely good,” said Singh.

For now, India’s attentions will turn to their four-match Test series against Australia, with the first Test kicking off in Adelaide on 6 December.