MS Dhoni says he wants to play for India in ODIs beyond the 2019 World Cup

Former India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni has scotched talk of his retirement, by saying he is aiming to play beyond the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019, which will be held in England and Wales.

The 35-year-old called time on his Test career in December 2014 and every once in a while questions are asked of him about retiring from the 50-over format as well.

On Thursday too, Dhoni, who led India to the 2011 World Cup, was asked during an event in New Delhi if he was 100 percent certain to play at the 2019 extravaganza.

To this, Dhoni replied: “There’s nothing called 100 percent.

“The reason being, we are in 2017. 2019 is two years from now. A lot can change in two years, especially when you have played cricket for over 10 years. And seeing Indian cricket team’s schedule, it is a very tough schedule.”

He added: “Uske baad aap thode vintage car ban jate hai (After that you become a vintage car). A lot of caring is needed. Sitting how I am today, yes, the way I am today, I can easily go beyond that (2019 World Cup).”

Recently, Dhoni guided Jharkhand into the semi-final of the Vijay Hazare Trophy, where they lost to Bengal by 41 runs. However, Dhoni had a good season, with scores of 129 against Chhattisgarh and 70 against Bengal. Dhoni has also been retained by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in the Grade A bracket for the Annual Players’ Contract.