MUMBAI: India's ODI captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni was non-committal about reports that he may skip the Test series against Sri Lanka later this month to take some much-needed break, saying the situation would be clear in a couple of days.
"In India and the subcontinent we have a full year of cricket and there's no off-season. It's tough for cricketers. When we want rest we should get it," India's limited overs captain said on Monday.
"BCCI has said that we can take rest whenever we want which I think is a very good policy," he said.
When asked whether he intended to take a break by opting out of the three-Test series in sri Lanka he said, "You will come to know that in a couple of days' time"
Dhoni insisted that he was fully fit during the Asia Cup that concluded in Karachi on Sunday.
"Since last series there's been no problem (on the fitness front). I have no (fitness) problem presently as well," said the swashbuckling wicket keeper batsman.
Dhoni did not read too much into the Indian team's losses in the two finals that it had contested recently, against Pakistan in the tri-series tournament in Dhaka and against Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup.
"Winning or losing can happen, but it's important to put in your best at all tinmes. If you still lose then there's little you can do about it," he said.
Defending the ODI team's inconsistent display, the Ranchi-born Dhoni said the team was short on international experience at the moment but would improve with time.
Looking ahead to the series against Sri Lanka in the Emerald Isle, Dhoni said he expected a tough battle between the two teams while adding that the return of experienced campaigners, Test captain Anil Kumble and off spinner Harbhajan Singh would prop up the attack.
"Sri Lanka is a tough place to play but we will be prepared and we hope to do well. We will have Anil Kumble and Harbhajan Singh returning which will be a big boost," he said.
India are to start the full tour of Lanka with a Test series which will be followed by five ODIs against the hosts.
Asked about celebrating his birthday away from his family he said, "I miss my family, but as a professional cricketer it's not always possible to spend birthdays with the family. I have not been there (Ranchi) for a long time and am looking forward to spend some time there over the next few days," Dhoni said.
He was also full of praise for Sachin Tendulkar's contribution to the team's efforts when asked about his own brand value for endorsements which currently rivals that of the champion batsman's.
"I cherish the time I have spent with him. He's a great player who's shared his experience with us and guided the whole team throughout."
Source: http://cricket.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/3207870.cms
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