Dhoni had skipped the recent Asia Cup due to injury and Gavaskar said Dhoni's return could change the fortunes of his side, as they take on arch-rivals Pakistan in the campaign opener at Mirpur tomorrow.
"Dhoni's return will change India. Yuvraj and Raina are also back. It's a plus-plus for India after Asia Cup," Gavaskar said.
Indian selectors also included Yuvraj Singh and Suresh Raina in the World Twenty20 squad. Both have shown signs of good form in the two warm-up matches India played in Bangladesh.
"Starting on a winning note is important. India is in a group of death and hence a win tomorrow will lift team's morale," Gavaskar told NDTV.
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He said India should bank on experience against Pakistan and suggested the inclusion of leg-spinner Amit Mishra in the playing eleven.
"Three spinners and two new-ball bowlers is a good Indian combination versus Pakistan. Experience is needed and Stuart Binny will have to sit out," Gavaskar said.
"Amit Mishra is high on confidence after Asia Cup. Leg-spinners are not easy to score of. He will make a difference and can win a match," he said.