Shikhar Dhawan seeks tips from Jayasuriya, Sachin

Sachin Tendulkar, Shikar Dhawan and Sanath Jayasuriya

Far from being disappointed at having to leave his home team Delhi Daredevils, young batsman Shikhar Dhawan says he is excited about playing alongside idols Sachin Tendulkar and Sanath Jayasuriya in Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League this year.

The 23-year-old, who was exchanged for Ashish Nehra by Delhi Daredevils, said he is looking forward to getting some batting tips from Tendulkar and Jayasuriya.

"I am excited about playing for Mumbai Indians as I will get an opportunity to learn from Tendulkar and Jayasuriya," Dhawan told.

"Whenever I get an opportunity, I will speak to them. Just being with Tendulkar is enough to inspire a player. Jayasuriya is a left-hander like me and his suggestions would definitely help improve my game," he said.

On the IPL being shifted to South Africa due to general elections in India, Dhawan said although he would miss playing in front of passionate fans in the country, he was excited about playing on the fast tracks in South Africa.

"I have never played in South Africa. I would try my best to do well which will also help me get into the national fold. Ultimately, it's playing for the country that matters," he said.