London, Aug 31: In the wake of a strenuous four-match Test series followed by the much anticipated start of a challenging ODI series against England, Indian skipper M. S. Dhoni has stressed on the need for adequate rest for the players.

India will face England in a Twenty20 international today in Manchester, while the five-match ODI series will begin from Saturday.

Talking to mediapersons, Dhoni said that key players in the team are participating in various formats which makes it important for them to take rest between schedules for consistent performance.

"The schedule looks quite cramped up. I think it is important to give team players rest. Somebody like a Suresh Raina, he has been participating in a lot of formats now and more to deal with the mental than the physical aspect and of course you know a bit of good rest helps to keep those injuries away that may happen," Dhoni said.

Expressing disappointment on ace batsman Gautam Gambhir's injury, Dhoni said that his exclusion from the team would be a big loss to the team.

"He has done very well for us, not only opening the side you know, but also he has batted at number three when we had Virender Sehwag and Sachin opening the innings, you know he is one player, one opener who also plays the spin department very well. So, I think it will be a big loss," he said.

"We can't control injuries especially sports related injuries so hopefully someone will stand up and take responsibility," he added. (ANI)