Important we play to our potential, says Dhoni

Three days. Or is it two-and-half days?

On Wednesday, India eased past Pakistan in Mohali to book a berth in the final of the ICC World Cup.

Come Saturday, they will play Sri Lanka at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

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Not much gap between two key matches one would think. Not if you are Mahendra Singh Dhoni though!

If India's captain is to be believed, the short break is a blessing in disguise.

"One good thing is there has been no break between the semi-final and the final," said Dhoni, adding, "Yesterday it was about travelling and a good night's sleep, and today we were back practicing.

"And that really helps you not to look much ahead. You are in the moment and don't get much time to think into the future.

"In a way, it is good. You are preparing yourself for the next big game, for you want to do well in a tournament like this, especially because it is being held in India."

The captain reiterated that the players have braced themselves for the big day.

"The psyche has changed, but the preparation remains the same," explained Dhoni, adding, "You want to end the tournament on a good note.

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"You know that you may have put in 200 per cent during the tournament, but till you put the full stop, the sentence is not complete.

"We don't know if we will make the final again or when will the World Cup next be hosted in the subcontinent. Therefore, it is important we play to our potential in the final."

Dhoni was also categorical regarding the significance of the toss.

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"Obviously, both the teams will want to win the toss and bat first. Both the teams will want to put up a good total on the board. The wicket will get slower as the day progresses. So the pressure will be more on the team batting second," he opined.

He also had a word of praise for his team. 

"Irrespective of the result tomorrow, I am proud of this team," said Dhoni, before proceeding to elaborate his point.

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"Everyone in this team understands his role and responsibility, and everyone has helped each other perform.

"It is not the results that make this team good. At the end of the day, it is about having the 11 players on the field who know their job and the four on the bench. Everyone has to enjoy each other's success.

"This is a very special side."