India coach Gary Kirsten believes rubbing shoulders with some of the world's best cricketers in the Indian Premier League has been of immense help to young Indian players.
"The IPL provides a great opportunity for young Indian cricketers to show what they are capable of in a high-profile environment," Kirsten said.
"They also get to mix with, and learn from, successful international cricketers. This can only be of benefit to Indian cricket. Performances during the IPL can definitely be a stepping stone to achieving higher honours. Yusuf Pathan was one example of that last year," said the former South African player.
According to Kirsten, the IPL has shown that the best team on paper need not be successful on the pitch.
"There will always be new ideas and new thinking in every IPL. What is of interest to me are those teams that are able to win consistently and why they are able to do it. It isn't always the best team on paper," the 41-year-old told a cricket website.
"When you are defending champions there will always be added pressure. That goes with the territory of high-performing teams. This team has played in many pressure situations since the Twenty20 World Cup in 2007 and has shown what they are capable of," he said.
The former South African opener is not too concerned about the conditions in England since it will be the same for every team.
"Every country has its own unique conditions which each team and individual needs to comes to terms with. The players are aware of those conditions and what is required to give themselves the best chance of performing. Most of the Indian players have played in England and know what to expect."
India may have been on a roll, winning matches at home and away, but Kirsten ruled out any hints of complacency gripping the squad.
"Experienced players understand the demands and pressures of World Cup tournaments. Throw in a few talented and fearless young players and you have a great mix in the team. There is certainly no danger of complacency within the Indian team. We pride ourselves in taking each game as it comes and giving 100 per cent on a daily basis while representing Team India," he said.
IPL a good platform for young players: Kirsten
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