India lucky to have a captain like Dhoni: Laxman

Lauding Indian skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni, retired stylish batsman V.V.S. Laxman Sunday said the national team was on track to defend its title in the 2015 ICC World Cup.

Laxman said Dhoni had the unique quality of being able to respond to a tough situation with ease and praised the captain for unearthing a talent like Ravindra Jadeja, whose allround role enabled India win the West Indies tri-series after the Championship trophy triumph.

"India is lucky to have a captain like him. He does get involved emotionally, that's his quality. His uniqueness lies in his ability to respond to a tough situation with ease," said Laxman on the sidelines of the Aakash Institute's annual award ceremony 'Vyom 2013' here.

Noting that Jadeja has come up as a great asset for the Indian team, Laxman said: "Dhoni backed him well, especially in utilising his bowling skills."

Expressing satisfaction over India's recent successes, he said the manner of victory over England in the Champions Trophy was "really commendable". He also gave credit to the youngsters for the side's stupendous show.

The middle-order batsman said the "cool and composed" Dhoni is steering the squad in the correct manner.

"He is properly managing the team. The team's performance in the recently concluded tri-series in West Indies is an indication that it is working in the right direction for the forthcoming World Cup," said Laxman, also showering praise on opener Shikhar Dhawan.

"The manner in which we beat England in England (in the Champions Trophy last month) was really commendable. I really appreciate the way he is instilling confidence among the youngsters. The youngsters should also be credited for the performance. It's a side that's going in the right direction ahead of the World Cup 2015," he said.

Laxman was confident about India keeping up the winning momentum in the coming trip to South Africa.

"India will be high on confidence after the 4-0 win over Australia. But they will get the real confidence if they can a overseas win on the South African soil. I am confident they will do well".

Laxman hoped master batsman Sachin Tendulkar would perform well in South Africa as he recalled the senior pro's three-figure knocks at Centurion and Capetown during India's previous visit to that country.

"I am sure he will go there with the fine memory of the two hundreds and have a fantastic series this time also," he added.