'He always guides us bowlers, whenever he feels the need to get his message across he does it. When the wicketkeeper supports you like that, it becomes easier for the bowler.'
India spinner Kuldeep Yadav says Mahendra Singh Dhoni's understanding of match situations beats that of the bowlers and the former captain's presence behind the stumps makes his job easy.
Kuldeep, who is quite vocal in his admiration for Dhoni, said he feels lucky to play alongside the iconic wicketkeeper-batsman, who led India to two World Cup titles -- World T20 in 2007 and ODI World Cup in 2011.
"He always guides us bowlers, whenever he feels the need to get his message across he does it. When the wicketkeeper supports you like that, it becomes easier for the bowler," Yadav said on Wednesday.
"A lot of times, the bowler is not able to understand the situation but the wicketkeeper understands it better. Mahi bhai (Dhoni) is just like that.
"He has so much experience. He tells gives us small details and even when he doesn't, I make sure to ask him for guidance. Chahal and I feel very lucky to be playing with him. Bowling becomes easier with Mahi bhai behind the stumps," he added.
Speaking on India's chances at the World Cup, starting in England from May 30, Kuldeep said the 2011 champions have a great opportunity to win their third title but he also expects teams like England and Pakistan to do well.
"We definitely have the chance to bring the World Cup home. But I feel England has a strong batting line-up as compared to the other teams. They will be playing in home conditions.
"I think Pakistan will also perform well in the World Cup looking at the way they have been performing. So I think England and Pakistan will be the ones to watch out for," Kuldeep said.
The left-arm spinner also lauded India's pace attack.
"We have a very good combination of bowlers in the side now. We train together and back each other which is the biggest plus point," he added.
On current captain Virat Kohli, Kuldeep said, "Virat bhai always backs us. He understands our bowling styles be it spinners or fast bowlers. He is a very attacking captain.
"It feels good as a spinner because then we get to take wickets regularly. He supports not only me and (Yuzvendra) Chahal but all the other youngsters in the team."
