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I am glad that India has Duncan Fletcher as coach: Dhoni

Last updated on: March 24, 2013 19:10 IST

One man who was the most relieved after India's 4-0 series win over Australia was coach Duncan Fletcher.

The Zimbabwean has had to endure a rough time as the coach of the Indian team suffering back to back whitewashes in England and Australia. He even suffered the ignominy of suffering a rare home defeat, when India were beaten 2-1 by England late last year.

But the BCCI continued to back Duncan Fletcher and extended his contract by a year till March next year. It is believed that all the players in the team also backed Fletcher's retention despite his poor record as they feel his technical input is proving to be beneficial in improving their overall game.


'Fletcher had only seen and spent tough periods with us'

Last updated on: March 24, 2013 19:10 IST

And India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni also lauded Fletcher's efforts and said he deserved the victory more than anyone.

"I am especially very happy for him because he has only seen and spent tough periods with us, especially when it comes to days [Test] cricket. 

"He has seen some good ODI performances but this is the best we have performed under him and we can only improve from here. I am glad he is around," Dhoni said in Delhi on Sunday after India crushed Australia by six wickets to complete a 4-0 series whitewash.


'Fletcher's technical knowledge of batting is immense'

Last updated on: March 24, 2013 19:10 IST

Dhoni pointed out that Fletcher has been playing a big role in helping India with the transition period since he is very good at handling the youngsters and grooming them for the future.

"He had a tough time, let's all admit that. But I think he is someone who knows the game really well. He knows the basics of cricket, his technical knowledge – I have talked about all these things. 

"His technical knowledge of batting is immense. He is there helping all the youngsters who have come into the team to groom them to do well in different conditions," he said.