Dhoni: We Have Confidence In Rahul Dravid

Dhoni: We Have Confidence In Rahul Dravid

Mahendra Singh Dhoni has confidence in Rahul Dravid (above).

©REUTERS/Punit Paranjpe (INDIA) Picture Supplied by Action Images

Indian captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni has played down talk that number three batsman Rahul Dravid is about to be dropped for the second Test against England, telling reporters that the team has confidence in their former skipper.

"I think it is a matter of time, once he passes that 30-run mark the confidence would start," he said. "That initial period, he is not able to pass that. But we have confidence in him, he will get runs at some time."

Dravid made seven runs in two innings in India's six-wicket win in the first Test when they chased down 387 to beat England.

Dravid has struggled for form for some time, averaging 17 in India's 2-0 series win over Australia and the 35-year-old's last century came as far back as March 2008 against South Africa.

However, the team management could move Dravid down the order, promoting VVS Laxman to three, but Dhoni was doubtful that this would be the best solution.

"It looks easy...shifting Rahul to number five and VVS (Vangipurappu Laxman) to number three, but imagine Laxman gets a good ball and gets out. There is already pressure on Dravid and all of a sudden there are three wickets down.

"Batting at number three it is only one down on the board, it gives him the freedom to play his natural game."

India are not expected to make any other changes to their line up.

© Cricket World 2008