M.S. Dhoni is satisfied with the preparations for the World T20 championship and feels that the Indian cricket team is in “auto-pilot mode” ahead of the mega event to be held in the country next month.
Dhoni said the 15 selected players must take care and not get injured in the run-up to the Asia Cup and World T20 event.
“We started with Australia and have played some T20 matches. It is a set platform and the team is in auto-pilot mode. We have to stay away from injuries. There may be one or two changes depending upon the pitches. If everybody remains fit and in form then it will be good for us,” Dhoni said at the launch of self-promoted apparel and footwear brand 'Seven' here on Friday.
Discussing the strengths of the Indian team, Dhoni said, “I do not want to elaborate a lot on this but if something happens to any of the 15 players we have got the replacement. If I need to play a seaming all-rounder in place of a spinning all-rounder then I have that option. If we need an extra opener then that provision is also there. In bilateral series you can have 16 or 17 men. Since you have to announce 15 players for this (World T20) you have to leave someone aside.
“The primary target is to maintain the balance in the side. If someone gets injured or unwell for one or two matches, then also we should have the replacement for him. Overall it is a balanced squad.”
The Indian captain appeared confident about the host's bowling attack.
“In the 50-over (format) it is different because if you do not get wickets in the middle overs then pressure increases... In T20, our bowling attack has been performing consistently. Here, you know that after an over or two the batsman will go for big shots.”
Asked whether his team was ready to face an aggressive Pakistan side in the upcoming tournaments, Dhoni said: “The Pakistan team has several new players, so it has to be a different team. I have not seen them. But there are certain guidelines to be followed. In Asia Cup and World T20 we have to abide by the rules and regulations and the spirit of the game. The Indian cricket team is not behind when it comes to playing aggressive cricket on the field. We don't negotiate on that.”
The Indian captain dismissed speculation that he might retire after the World T20.
“More of Dhoni in the next one year? Sure. Reason is very simple. After the Indian Premier League, we mostly play Test matches and only five ODIs. That will consume only five days,” he said.
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