Youngsters could make the difference

I think, India will be rejuvenated before the ODI series because a number of youngsters have come in. Kevin Pietersen writes.

It's the start of a fresh series, but I won't be around for the ODI matches. In seven years that I have played for England, this is the first time I will be taking a break when I am not injured. It will be good to switch off. I might go for one of the games, but I won't be watching every single ball.

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As I look ahead, it is a good time to share what happened with us in 2007 when we lost the Ashes 0-5 in Australia. We went on to win the ODI tri-series that followed. So, I think, India will be rejuvenated before the ODI series because a number of youngsters have come in.

Ashwin and Virat Kohli are good players and Raina is fantastic in ODIs. Then there is Vinay Kumar with whom I have played in Bangalore.

There will be a buzz around them in limited-over contests. The key factor is these youngsters were not part of the 4-0 Test whitewash. It will be a nice change for the squad to have these confident cricketers. But, to come up against England at home will be a big challenge even for these talented youngsters.

The only concern is the weather. Winter is slowly setting in but if it stays clear, I expect a good series.

TCM