We have to improve in all the three departments: Dhoni

Indian cricket captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni said the short series against Pakistan later this year would be a bit tough for the players because of the hectic schedule but added that they would have to be ready and do well against their arch-rivals.

Asked about the three ODI and two Twenty20 Internationals against Pakistan in December-January, Dhoni said, "We are professional cricketers. The series will have to be played and we have to get ready for it. Sentiment does not play any part since we are taught to be professionals on field.

"We have to be positive and we have to understand that we are representing the country. It will be a bit tough because of the hectic schedule but we have to do well against Pakistan also," he said ahead of the team's departure for the limited-overs series in Sri Lanka.

Dhoni said the team is working on improving in all the three departments of the game, which, he said, would also be important for the Twenty20 World Cup.

"I can't discuss the team strategy here but we have to improve in all the three departments of the game. We are also doing specific fielding practices and we want to improve in fielding," Dhoni said.

"Now most of the players have come back after a long break and the body looks very different and their fielding and other activities look very different. We will make the most of the rests that we have got.

"Since the last few days since we have assembled here we have been practicing hard and had fairly long sessions. We also got specific sessions. We look forward to be successful in the coming series," said Dhoni.

Coach Duncan Fletcher conceded that India had a difficult time last season, but said he is hoping for a turnaround this year.

"It was a difficult season if you consider the three or four big tours that India undertook. After that I had come over here after the IPL and have been talking to Dhoni and other officials.

"I have certainly discussed the aspects with them and I do not think it is necessary for me to talk about it in this forum.

"Hopefully, sometimes the things turn around. Look, the players have come back after a break and look a very good team for the moment. There is lot of intensity in what they do. Hopefully, they can maintain it and turn the results around," Fletcher said.

Asked what specific areas the team needs to work, Fletcher said, "I think you have to work on every area. It is very important how they work to improve upon.

"We are going to Sri Lanka and would be returning after about four weeks and then going again for Twenty20 World Cup. So, we have to work on every area for good results.

"I have got good response from the players. Everyone seems to enjoy the inputs that I have brought into the side. I have also really enjoyed working with them," he said, when asked about how much he has adjusted to Indian culture.

On the meetings with BCCI president N Srinivasan, he said, "I had a couple of meetings with the president of the Board.

"I had a meeting during the IPL final and I had a meeting with him this morning. From my point of view I think the meetings went on very well and I do not think we can discuss the details in this forum.

"We had a good chat this morning for about an hour and a half. Hopefully from my point of view everyone accepted certain views and how we need see what is happening in the future."