Mumbai Indians' Ajinkya Rahane tells espnstar.com's Chandraboli Mitra that he has a lot to look forward to in IPL II.

The 20-year-old, who has also been included in the 30 probable, announced by the BCCI for the second edition of the World Cup Twenty20 to be held in England in June, said that IPL would be perfect stepping stone.

"IPL will be a stepping stone. It is an extremely important tournament for the youngsters and it will give an opportunity to grow from strength to strength. Players like Ravindra Jadeja, Siddharth Trivedi have climbed heights after their success in the mega event last season."

Speaking about the challenges of playing in South Africa, the top-order Mumbai batsman said, "I am very excited about playing in South Africa but it will be extremely challenging. But there will be enough time to get adjusted to the conditions."

He further added that he will stick to playing his natural game in South Africa on the advice of his team captain and idol Sachin Tendulkar.

"I will certainly have to adapt to the conditions. The challenge will be to counter the extra bounce and the fact that the ball comes early to the bat in South Africa will make it a little tough. But 10 days should be enough to get used to the conditions and I would look to play my natural game."

Besides doing well in the tournament, the right-hand batsman is also keen to improve his overall cricketing skills by using the opportunity of sharing the dressing room with the international stars.

"Last season I benefited immensely by discussing a lot of things with the players of international stature. It was a marvellous experience, learning a few tricks of the trade from some of the best in the business over a period of 45-50 days. This time also I would be looking to do just that."

Rahane added that the presence of Shaun Pollock, Jean-Paul Duminy in the Mumbai Indians team, who are from South Africa, will come in handy.

"I am dying to have a long conversation with Pollock, Duminy in South Africa, which will not only help me do well there but will also help me in the long run."

Talking about his Mumbai Indians franchisee owners, the young man clarified that there is no amount of pressure from them, despite the team not being able to make it to the semifinals last year.

"We didn't do too well last year, so we are hungry to give our best and keep alive the faith that our franchisee has shown in us," concluded Rahane.