Dhaka: India will not be short on motivation when they take on a struggling Bangladesh side in the tri-series with skipper Saurav Ganguly saying on Thursday the team was 'hungry' to win everything that came its way and gather the winning momentum once again. 

Ganguly also said the team was keen to win its opening encounter on Friday as it would set it up nicely ahead of the tougher contest against South Africa, the third team in fray.

"It is important that we pick up the momentum. It is an important game on Friday and we need to start off well. It will help when we play South Africa," Ganguly told reporters after the practice session at the Bangabandhu Stadium.

Ganguly, who appeared pretty relaxed, said the two-week break after the World Cup had given the team some rest and it was hungry to win again. India won eight games in a row in the World Cup before losing to Australia in the final.

"It is a young team, but it is also a hungry side. We have been playing a lot but it is important to keep the good work going," he said. The elegant left-hander, who indicated that he will continue to bat at the number three position, said the absence of some of the senior players had given the opportunity to the youngsters to prove their worth.

"The seniors have been playing a lot of cricket and do need a break. I think it also gives an opportunity to the youngsters. We get to find cricketers this way. I am sure by the end of the series we will find some good new players," the Indian skipper said.

Ganguly said though his back continued to trouble him, he decided to go ahead with the series as already some of the seniors had pulled out on various grounds.

"The back is a little stiff. I have been playing at a stretch for quite some time. But with many of the seniors not around for this tournament, I thought I should play," he said.

Ganguly, who has happy memories of the Bangabandhu Stadium, believes that the placid track will favour the batsmen as usual. "It is a typical Dhaka wicket and will have a lot of runs. It is a good One-day track."

Extras:
Salvi, Gambhir to make their debut tomorrow
India, SA have a lot of young blood: Ganguly
Indian newcomers eager to make it count
Our mission is to win wherever we go: Ganguly