We are a far better side in the one-dayers: Ravi Shastri

Speaking to bcci.tv, Shastri said, "We have had a good look in the two games and know what we can expect out of the South Africans. In the one-day competition we understand our game as well. We are far better side in the one-dayers and I expect a very good contest over the next month.”

Speaking about their recent series loss, the team director said that it is important to treat it as a lesson and learn from it.

"We might have lost the series but I treat it as a great exposure in the lead up to the World Twenty20. As a unit we have played very little T20 cricket in bilateral series. It's a young team, we're still figuring out on what will be our best combination and the best way forward," he said.

Shastri also mentioned that playing a stronger team like South Africa will improve India's gameplay.

"There is no better preparation than playing a team like South Africa who play more T20 cricket than any other team in the world. They are one of the strongest teams across all formats. By the time they leave we will be a much stronger team in two and a half months. We will be a much better team irrespective of the result"

"We have a long season coming and this will serve as a great exposure for the team," he added.

Shastri also expressed his disappointment about a poor outing in Cuttack by the Indian team. 

 

He said, "“I would go down to one game really in Cuttack where we could have played much better but we just did not show up. The boys are also disappointed about it. I am disappointed with the result as anybody would be. We play to win. But it's nothing that it will give me a sleepless night. It has taught me a lot as well going forward into the World Twenty20. There are plenty of things to learn."

The team director believes that unburdening Dhoni is the key to their success. "Our endeavour will be to get Dhoni back at his hitting best. We know what he can do when he starts striking. The world knows. I don’t have to say anything,” he said.

Speaking about the crucial number 6 batting position he said, "We are very keen to see the month of December when all the one-day competitions are scheduled. The No.6 position has a different role in 50-over cricket, but an extremely important role in T20 cricket. The team that goes on to win the World T20, you will see that their No.6 batsman could be a very crucial player. The whole December and January month will be watched closely."