India-Forums.TV

[aryan]

AHMEDABAD: It is not the burden of the expectations of a billion people but the Indian team's preparation and execution of plans that would matter most when the hosts clash with four-time World Cup champions Australia at the Motera on Thursday according to India captain MS Dhoni.

Speaking, a day ahead of the quarterfinal, Dhoni said, "I think it's a big advantage playing at home. You have 40,000 people cheering for you. If you are in tough situations on the field those cheering fans help you and it is great to have that kind of a home support. It really helps," in the same vein he then added, "If you are part of the Indian team you realize that more often than not the expectations are not set by you but by others. Players have however realized that it is not the expectations that matter but the good preparation and execution of your plans on the field."

Dhoni also wanted his side to be ready mentally and more importantly ensure that it was transformed into a good performance. "Being mentally strong will be important but at the same time you have to rely on your skills. Ultimately, it has to reflect on the field and it is skill that really helps you give off your best. Mentally you have to be in a good frame of mind to execute the plans," he said.

On the Indian team's recent failures of not being able to bat the full quota of overs, Dhoni hopes his team will learn and now do better.