Murali Vijay and I hope to emulate Virender Sehwag, Gautam Gambhir: Shikhar Dhawan

On the verge of making his Test debut, India's Shikhar Dhawan today expressed his desire to form an opening combination with Murali Vijay, which can emulate the success enjoyed by Virender Sehwag and Gautam Gambhir at the top.

Both Sehwag and Gambhir are currently out of the squad owing to prolonged run drought, forcing the selectors to run out of patience.

"Both Viru bhai and Gautam have done well over a long period of time. I hope we also do as good as them in the future," the 27-year-old Dhawan told reporters on the eve of the third Test against Australia here tomorrow.

"In the last two games Viru paaji played, I have spoken to him, tried to learn from him," the Delhi player added.

Dhawan said he also observed Sachin Tendulkar batting at the nets, and could learn a few things by merely watching the senior batsman train.

Dhawan was given the news of his debut today morning by coach Duncan Fletcher and captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni.

Talking about opening the innings with the Chennai right-hander, the left-handed Dhawan said coordination between the two will be very important if they are to form a successful partnership.

"Coordination...things like running between the wickets, with Vijay should not be a problem at all. I have played with him in the Irani Cup and we understand each other well," he said.

Dhawan is pleased to have entered the Test arena, the pinnacle of international cricket, after years of slog in the domestic circuit.

"I have performed really well in domestic cricket and I am not feeling any pressure. Obviously, there is a bit of nerves, but it's the same with everyone," he said. Asked about the transition from domestic to international cricket, Dhawan said, "When you make runs in challenging situations, you feel ready for the next level. And I am confident of doing well after many years in domestic cricket which has made me more mature and patient.

... contd.

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