The cool quotient of MS Dhoni seems to be rising. With just a day to go for the start of the hyped-up series against South Africa, and with his pace spearhead virtually out of the fray, some nerves would not have been out of place. However, Dhoni was as relaxed and assured as ever as he fielded media queries at the pre-Test press conference. Here is what he had to say on various issues:
On coach Gary Kirsten: I've often said that Gary is one of the best things to have happened to Indian cricket. About this series, he knows the conditions here and also the mindset of the SA players. It's a big advantage for us.
On missing practice due to inclement weather: It was only supposed to be light practice, so it's not going to have a big impact. However, it's always good to get some practice under your belt.
On the toss: It's going to be crucial. Whoever wins it will have 60% advantage.
On South Africa captain Graeme Smith saying pressure will be on India: We always play under pressure, whether at home or abroad. Expectations are so high. It's better not to think about that and focus on the job on hand and look at the short-term objectives.
On the preparations: We've made good use of the time and facilities available to us. Some more time to prepare would have been better.
On Zaheer Khan's dodgy fitness: Zaheer has been the best bowler to lead the attack anywhere. But it's wise to look at the bigger picture. The World Cup is coming up shortly and we can't risk our main bowler before such a big event.
On newcomers Yadav and Unadkat: They should enjoy the game and not get caught up in expectations and by the talk that they have replaced someone of the stature of Zaheer. It could be a blessing in disguise for us.
On the playing 11: We'll decide on Thursday after discussion with the seniors.
On his finger injury: It's been a bit of a concern. It happens to wicketkeepers. Zaheer and Sreesanth test me the most behind the wickets. But right now, I've 10 straight fingers.
On the grassy track in Centurion: The greenest track I've ever seen was in Durban during the World Twenty20 Championship in 2007 when we played against South Africa. What we have now is not even close to that. This is the usual Centurion wicket.
On SA bowlers targetting Virender Sehwag: Well, Sehwag doesn't take any pressure, you know. There is only one Sehwag. He'll play as he plays.
Read more: Kirsten best thing to happen to Indian team: Dhoni - The Times of India
On coach Gary Kirsten: I've often said that Gary is one of the best things to have happened to Indian cricket. About this series, he knows the conditions here and also the mindset of the SA players. It's a big advantage for us.
On missing practice due to inclement weather: It was only supposed to be light practice, so it's not going to have a big impact. However, it's always good to get some practice under your belt.
On the toss: It's going to be crucial. Whoever wins it will have 60% advantage.
On South Africa captain Graeme Smith saying pressure will be on India: We always play under pressure, whether at home or abroad. Expectations are so high. It's better not to think about that and focus on the job on hand and look at the short-term objectives.
On the preparations: We've made good use of the time and facilities available to us. Some more time to prepare would have been better.
On Zaheer Khan's dodgy fitness: Zaheer has been the best bowler to lead the attack anywhere. But it's wise to look at the bigger picture. The World Cup is coming up shortly and we can't risk our main bowler before such a big event.
On newcomers Yadav and Unadkat: They should enjoy the game and not get caught up in expectations and by the talk that they have replaced someone of the stature of Zaheer. It could be a blessing in disguise for us.
On the playing 11: We'll decide on Thursday after discussion with the seniors.
On his finger injury: It's been a bit of a concern. It happens to wicketkeepers. Zaheer and Sreesanth test me the most behind the wickets. But right now, I've 10 straight fingers.
On the grassy track in Centurion: The greenest track I've ever seen was in Durban during the World Twenty20 Championship in 2007 when we played against South Africa. What we have now is not even close to that. This is the usual Centurion wicket.
On SA bowlers targetting Virender Sehwag: Well, Sehwag doesn't take any pressure, you know. There is only one Sehwag. He'll play as he plays.
Read more: Kirsten best thing to happen to Indian team: Dhoni - The Times of India
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