Opener Shikhar Dhawan was all praise for rookie pacer Barinder Sran after his impressive showing in India’s easy victory in the opening T20 warm-up game against Western Australia on Friday, saying the left-arm speedster looks a "good prospect for India".
Asked what he felt about Sran, who played his first competitive match in India jersey, the senior opener said, "It was great boost for Beri; actually, I call him by that name. It always nice to get three wickets (2-24). With time he will get more matured as he gains experience. He is fit and strong. He looks to be a good prospect for India."
The Delhi left-hander, who displayed good touch while scoring 74 in the tourists' 74-run victory, said the "team got what it wanted" from the opening tour fixture.
"I am happy that I scored runs in a practice match. It gives me confidence. I got used to the pitch. More time that I spend at the wicket in the coming days, better it will be for me."
He was happy that the team got into the groove from the start and he could share a 100-run stand with Virat Kohli.
"It was good to get into groove and get a 100-run partnership before the main match. We got what we needed from the practice match," said Dhawan, who faces his first big test on the tour against Australia’s pace attack at the WACA in the opening ODI on January 12.
The Indian team is back in Australia after 10 months but Dhawan insisted that the attitude remains the same despite a few changes in the squad.
"If you ask me about what changed from last time, I would say some players have changed. But the attitude is still the same as there can't be much change on that aspect... because at international level one needs maintain a certain degree of hard work. We will be aggressive and play with positive mindset.
"We are pumped up and well-prepared for this tour. We are covering all areas in regard to fitness and skill work. We have just got to work hard, keep calm and focus. We will try to achieve the goals given by support staff."
He agreed that beating Australia in their den is top of the agenda.
"Australia are one of the best side in the world. Winning against a good side always gives a good feeling. We will give our best shot."
Dhawan is also unconcerned about Australia missing some of their frontline bowlers.
"See, we haven't thought about it. We will focus on what we have to do."
