MS Dhoni lauds Ravindra Jadeja and Rohit Sharma, says 'enjoyment key to success'

Indian skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni on Friday lauded his teammates Ravindra Jadeja and Rohit Sharma, saying they are quick learners of the game and performing consistently.

Dhoni, who was asked to comment on improvement in Jadeja's performance, said the left-arm orthodox bowler is very consistent with his line and length.

"What we need to see is international cricket is a difficult scenario where all the cricketers don't really start brilliantly, but what happens is the more time you spend and the more games you play, you get more and more confident about the fact what really your strengths are and what needs to be done," said Dhoni.

"And I think that's what he has done and that's what he has figured out. The good thing with him is he is a bowler who is very consistent with his line and length. Doesn't vary his stuff a lot, he keeps hitting the same areas, watches the batsman if he is stepping out or something he throws it out. Apart from that, he is someone who has been very consistent with his line and length and that's what is helping him," he added.

Dhoni also spoke in praise of Sharma, saying he is someone who is very talented.

"I think he is someone who can cut and pull the bowl well and that's what we have seen. Whenever we play a team that is not from the sub-continent more often than not they are of the thinking that lets bowl the short to the openers and pitch it up. And all of a sudden the opener cuts and pulls, they don't really have a backup plan," said Dhoni, when asked about Rohit Sharma who has been promoted up the order impressive with the way he plays the new ball.

"So, he is someone who can do the job well for us, and also the fact that he is someone who is really talented. And that's the only space we have got where we all felt that with his talent he can really capitalize and be a good opener," he added.

Dhoni, who was interacting with the media here ahead of Saturday's game against arch-rival Pakistan in the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy, said 'it's not only India which is looking for an opener who is not really an opener'.

"Even England has done that with Ian Bell. So, I think that's really helping us," he added.

Dhoni, who is the most successful captain in Indian cricket, further said enjoyment is the key to success and not motivation.

"Motivation has never been a factor especially when you are representing your country and you are talking about 1.2 billion people and the expectation level is very high. So, I don't think a speech needs to be given to motivate the guys. I think of all of them are very motivated. It's important to enjoy the game more than anything else. When we picked up cricket or any individual picks up any sport, it's for enjoyment nobody really thinks at a very early stage that it will be his career (and) I will earn money," said Dhoni, when asked about he motivates the youngsters in his side.

"So, I think that's what is important at the top level also when you are competing at the top-level its important to stick to the fact that it is still a sport, you are there to enjoy, you are there to give your hundred percent and that's what something is of utmost importance. I think all these individuals they have been able to do that. They have been able to mix match everything, their fitness, their cricketing and their life at the same time. So, I think that enjoyment factor is the key," he added.