NEW DELHI: The Indian cricket team is not yet where it "wants to be" in terms of preparations for next year's T20 World Cup, but head coach Gautam Gambhir says there is still enough time to reach the desired level.

In a brief teaser of his interview with bcci.tv, Gambhir also emphasised the importance of fitness.

"It has been a very transparent dressing room, it has been a very honest dressing room and that is how we want this dressing room to be. I think we still aren't where we want to be come the T20 World Cup," he said in the 46-second clip which will be followed by the full interview later in the day.

"Hopefully guys know the importance of being fit. We still have three months to be where we want to be," he added.

The T20 World Cup is set to be held in India and Sri Lanka in February-March next year, with India entering as the defending champions.

Gambhir also reiterated his approach of giving players challenging assignments to test their character and mental strength.

"Throw guys in the deep sea, as simple as it can get. We did the same with Shubman (Gill) as well when he was appointed as Test captain," he said.

Gill pulled off an inspired batting performance in his maiden Test series, against England, as captain. The Indian team under him drew the series 2-2 after every match stretched to the fifth day with fortunes oscillating wildly throughout.