'Dravid's absence opportunity for young guns'

GUWAHATI: The critics may be taking the selection panel to task for dropping Rahul Dravid, but Indian skipper M S Dhoni feels that the Wall's absence has opened up opportunities and challenges for youngsters to prove their mettle in the high-pressure series against Pakistan.
    
Fielding queries at the customary media briefing today ahead of Monday's one-day series opener here, Dhoni chose to mix aggression with some soft responses.
    
Asked whether without Dravid the middle order looked fragile, Dhoni shot back "why do you think so? You mean to say the other batsmen in he team are not reliable?"
    
However, he maintained that it was difficult to get perfect replacement for experienced players.
    
"It is difficult to fill in the place of talented players like the Bangalorean, Sachin (Tendulkar), Sourav (Ganguly) or (Anil) Kumble. But it's an opportunity for youngsters to prove themselves," he said.
    
Dhoni said the Indians were strong in batting and bowling departments but fielding and running between the wickets need to be looked after.
    
"We are looking to improve our fielding and running between the wickets."
    
The Indian skipper also said the heat that comes with the Indo-Pak clashes, would serve as an opportunity for youngsters to prove their worth.
    
"India-Pak matches are always considered a big event in international cricket. They are the  toughest of matches to play, especially if you are new at this level. It's a challenge for them(youngsters) and they need to prove themselves," he said.