Perth, Jan 15: India's disastrous batting performance in Australia has raised questions on the future of its great but ageing stalwarts amid mounting speculation that VVS Laxman's Test career may be close to an end.
Laxman has scored just 102 runs from the six innings he has played in the ongoing series against Australia so far, with one half century, averaging only 17.
His overall record in Australia, in comparison, is an extremely impressive 50.65 with six hundreds from 28 Tests.
Laxman also had a poor run in England last year, averaging only 22.75 from four matches.
There was speculation that Laxman himself may announce his retirement after the Australia tour.
Asked about this, Dhoni said he did not know anything and he would not want to speculate.
"As of now, there is nothing I know of officially. I wouldn't like to answer when there is a big if and a big but. I don't know from where it has come. Till Laxman comes and tells me, I wouldn't like to speculate on it," Dhoni said at the post-match press conference.
"As for this game, I didn't think of promoting Laxman or Kohli at number three. If you see Rahul has been our best man at number three. He has done well everywhere," he said.
Dravid has been getting bowled repeatedly in Australia. He has been bowled eight times in his last ten innings and has been bowled 54 times in his career.
Dhoni himself has not done well in Australia and England which has triggered calls for his removal as Test captain.
He has scored 102 runs in the six innings he has played so far in the ongoing series against Australia, with 57 not out in the second match his highest.
