Cool Kirsten driving India forward, says skipper Dhoni

By Sanjay Rajan

RAJKOT, India (Reuters) - Indian coach Gary Kirsten's calmness in the dressing room was working wonders for the team, skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni said on Thursday.

"He's not one of the guys, if we lose two or three wickets in a session, is in a panic, drinking plenty of water, moving here and there," he said.

"He's a calm and cool guy. It helps in making the dressing room atmosphere calm and cool.

"He's been great so far, and hopefully he'll be the same in the future," he told a news conference.

A buoyant India begin a seven-game one-day series against England from Friday after a comprehensive 2-0 home test series win over Australia this week, their first over the world champion side for seven years.

Dhoni praised the former South Africa opening batsmen for motivating the players while staying firmly behind the scenes.

"Whatever coaches I have gone through, he is very different," the wicketkeeper said.

"He gives plenty of confidence to the players. He's a great motivator and hits at the right moment, and in the right areas.