South Africa have hired the services of former India coach Kirsten and Hussey, who has got a fair knowledge about players like Mahendra Singh Dhoni, Suresh Raina and Ravindra Jadeja, having played in the IPL.
"It will help to an extent but then a lot depends on how they play on the field," Gavaskar told NDTV.
South Africa's record against India in the World Cup is an enviable 3-0, having won their matches in 92, 99 and 2011 editions. The two teams will square off at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Sunday.
"Kirsten knows how people react in the Indian dressing room. Hussey has also played in the IPL. They will try and tell how to play the Indian spinners, how to negotiate 20 overs of spin," the former captain said.
Calling the Proteas a better bowling unit, Gavaskar added: "India shouldn't take South African bowling attack lightly. India need to bat sensibly early on and score at least 260-270."
"India have a good chance of beating South Africa if they play like they played versus Pakistan. If they get the same captaincy from Dhoni.
"I am not so worried about South Africa's pace attack. Steyn is up there but Morkel is inconsistent, Philander is not quick and Imran Tahir was smashed around the park by the Australians. And the Indians play spin better than Australia. It's a big opportunity for India as long as they go with the same approach," Chappell said, raising India's hopes of breaking the WC jinx against the Proteas.