Rediff

Mirpur, Jun 9: India coach Gary Kirsten ruled out any Indian Premier League hangover on the team and asserted that the transition from Twenty20 to one-day cricket would be smooth for his wards in their tri-series opener against arch-rivals Pakistan in Dhaka on Tuesday.

Talking to reporters ahead of the match, Kirsten said the team think-tank has done enough to ensure that the players swiftly adjust to the one-day mode.

"It is something we have given some considerations and thoughts too. We need to make sure that our game plan and strategies are designed for 50 overs cricket. It is different to what they did in the IPL. So we worked hard during the last two days to get things right," Kirsten said.

The Indian players, after their assignment in the 44-day IPL, had hardly any breathing space as they flew to Dhaka for the tri-series. Asked if they were made to play too many matches, Kirsten said, "That is the reason that the selectors have chosen a pretty young side for this tournament and the Asia Cup.

"It is important in our long-term plan that we have a group of 15 to 20 players equally good enough to play for India, because we have got to give enough rest to the players. I have been thinking very carefully about how we do that," he said.

Talking about Virender Sehwag's prospects of playing Tuesday's match against the traditional rivals, Kirsten said, "He has got mild cold. As a precautionary measure, we thought we could give him some rest, so that he is available for selection tomorrow.

"Otherwise, there are no fitness worries. Everyone is fit and firing and we had a good and useful long practice session today," he said.

On tomorrow's match, Kirsten has no doubts that the battle between the arch-rivals will live up to the expectations.

"I am sure it is going to be great game tomorrow. Every India and Pakistan match is a great match. I know our guys are totally keyed up for this match.

"My players are motivated for the game and want to do well. I have no concerns about the intensity of the match, though it is a big game," the South African said.

Kirsten said he watched Sunday night's game between Pakistan and Bangladesh to get an idea of the pitch and the outfield.

"I had a look at it today as well and I do not think it is going to be different. We have got an idea as to how the pace is going to be and we'll plan accordingly," he said.