Missing the team balance in Pandya's absence: Shikhar Dhawan

Melbourne, Jan 17 (CRICKETNMORE): Admitting that suspended all-rounder Hardik Pandya was "crucial" for the team's balance, India opener Shikhar Dhawan on Thursday said the team is not grappling wi

"The good thing is we have got all fit players and very mature players, very experienced. That makes us a very strong batting unit. And of course we have been performing very well and consistently over the past few years," he said.

Asked about his preparation when the Test series was on, Dhawan, who was not part of the squad, said: "I had 5-6 weeks off and I was training hard. It was good because, looking forward to the World Cup, it was a good break for me. Now I'm happy to be back in the side, playing matches and raring to go."

"I think my rhythm is there, the way I was hitting the ball. It is very important to take a break and feel fresh, which we Indian cricketers don't get much of, so we're not used to it," he said.

Talking about Friday's match, Dhawan said the absence of Steve Smith and David Warner is being felt but the hosts are a balanced unit.

"Australia have a good all-round side, they have a good balanced side. Of course the presence of Smith and Warner is missing in this side. They are legends of their country and big players in the cricket world," he said.