No magic in return to form says Dhoni

6:20 pm on 2 March 2015

The India captain MS Dhoni says there's no magic behind his team's stunning World Cup form - just better decision making.

The India cricket captain MS Dhoni.

The India cricket captain MS Dhoni. Photo: PHOTOSPORT

A winless Test and one-day tour of Australia had left India looking vulnerable entering their World Cup title defence.

But powerful wins over Pakistan, South Africa, and the United Arab Emirates have propelled India back among the favourites for the 50-over showpiece event.

Opener Shikhar Dhawan has bounced back to form in dramatic fashion; Virat Kohli is averaging 93, while spinner Ravi Ashwin has snared eight wickets in three matches.

"There's no real secret magic to it," Dhoni said.

"A lot of batsmen, they were not getting enough runs, and also it's difficult to switch straight from Test cricket to ODI cricket.

"But what has improved is the consistency in bowling and the way we are picking our shots."

India sit on top of Pool B, and they'll be aiming to continue their hot form when they take on the struggling West Indies at the WACA Ground on Friday.

Paceman Mohammed Shami, who missed the nine-wicket win over the UAE because of a knee injury, is a chance to return against the West Indies.

India coach Duncan Fletcher, who flew to South Africa last week for a funeral, is also expected to be back on deck.

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