Shami ruled out of UAE clash

They've lost their coach and a key paceman, but India are remaining calm and composed heading into Saturday's World Cup clash with Associates the United Arab Emirates at the WACA Ground.

India coach Duncan Fletcher will miss Saturday's game after flying to Cape Town to attend the funeral of his father-in-law, but he'll be back in time for the March 6 showdown with the West Indies.

Assistant coaches Bharath Arun, R Sridhar, Sanjay Bangar, and Ravi Shastri will assume increased responsibilities until Fletcher returns.

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Paceman Mohammed Shami, who has snared six wickets in two games during the World Cup, will also miss the match against UAE because of a left knee injury.

India, who sit on top of Pool B after opening their campaign with big wins over Pakistan and South Africa, are hot favourites to beat the UAE at the WACA Ground.

Batsman Shikhar Dhawan said the team would cope fine without Fletcher.

"Of course Duncan is our main coach and we are going to miss his presence," Dhawan said.

"But we are going to still do the same routine. We'll follow the routine, and go and play the game."

Dhawan's spot in India's side was under threat recently following his disastrous Test and ODI tour of Australia.

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But scores of 73 and 137 against Pakistan and South Africa respectively have revived his confidence and left him primed for some more big scores.

"You can say I've got used to the bounce finally," Dhawan said with a chuckle.

"I enjoy playing my shots, so whenever I get loose deliveries. I go for my shots. it's good to see it's going the way I want.

"I was staying calm (during my form slump) and was working hard and keeping my work ethic strong.

"My team have stood with me very strongly, and I'm very thankful to my teammates and support staff.

"Because of that, I'm now scoring runs."

Although they are yet to win a game, the UAE have been competitive against Zimbabwe and Ireland.

India have enjoyed huge support from their fans during the World Cup, and Dhawan expects another big Indian contingent to be present at the WACA Ground.