Experienced Dravid adds great value to the team, says Kirsten

Back in the one-day scheme of things now, Dravid went about his business along with his team-mates on Thursday’s opening day of the four-day preparatory camp at the NCA, even as Gary Kirsten spoke of the importance of having a player like Dravid in the side.
“It’s good to have him back. He is a very experienced player and adds massive value to the team,” said the coach.

“He is a natural performer, so it’s nice to have Rahul back in the side. I am sure everyone in the side is looking forward to him being part of the set-up,” said Kirsten.
Recalled to the side following some disappointing performances from youngsters, Dravid will be expected to lend solidity to the somewhat shaky middle-order.

“My expectation from Rahul would be the same as from any other player. I want him to give a 100 percent for the team and I don’t need to tell him that because he does it every time he puts the badge on for Team India, whether it’s in training or a match,” the former South African opener remarked.

Kirsten, however, tried to downplay some of the younger players’ inability to cope with the rising ball, one of the reasons why Dravid was summoned back to the ODI side. “I only saw the short-pitched ball being a problem in just one game in the T20 Worlds, so I don’t really see that as a problem.

“We see all these individuals, including the young players, who have performed exceptionally well in one-day cricket for an extended period of time. Rahul and Sachin (Tendulkar) are quality players with a lot of experience and this team will benefit immensely. (But) we must also look at the long term in these things,” he opined.