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Ganguly eagerly awaits return

Sourav Ganguly has laid to rest speculation of a power-struggle for captaincy by saying that he had no issues playing under Rahul Dravid

Cricinfo staff
01-Aug-2005


Sourav Ganguly: has the 10,000 run milestone in his sights © Getty Images
Sourav Ganguly, the former Indian captain, has laid to rest all speculation of a power-struggle for captaincy by saying that he had no issues playing under Rahul Dravid, the current Indian captain. He has said that his top priority was to score runs for the team.
"I have played under other captains, so it should be no problem. I am happy to play anywhere, whatever suits the team, Rahul [Dravid] and Greg [Chappell]," Ganguly told PTI. "I have been selected in the team to perform, as was the case when I was picked for the first time. You have to perform at this level." He was banned for six one-day internationals by the ICC for slow over-rates when Pakistan toured India in April. The ban was reduced to four ODIs by Albie Sachs, an ICC-appointed arbitrator, following a BCCI appeal on Ganguly's behalf. He spent the last two months playing for Glamorgan and has regained some form on the English county circuit. "I have been in touch with the game and it would be good to score runs and help India win the trophy," said Ganguly. "As I can see if we bat well in the competition we have a good chance of winning."
The pitch at Dambulla has not been conducive to prolific run-making and Ganguly said that he had a fair idea of how to negotiate the wicket. "It is a kind of wicket where you have to grind for your runs. You don't get easy runs here. I am not too sure about the pace; perhaps it is two-paced."
After all the attention he received for five-and-a-half years as the Indian captain, Ganguly said that a break from the spotlight would be appreciated. "Actually, I don't mind it [lack of attention]. I had a lot of attention for five years. If for the next three or four games, or whatever happens in this series, I am not too worried. Whatever will happen, will happen."
Ganguly said that his wealth of experience would always be available to Dravid if required. "As I see it, it will be hard work for Rahul. It always is for the captain. There are a lot of things which are on mind and if I feel something could benefit the team, I will definitely pass on the suggestion to him."
Ganguly, who is 33 short of 10,000 runs in one-day cricket - a feat achieved only by Sachin Tendulkar and Inzamam-ul-Haq, said that he was looking forward to the milestone. "It is something I am looking forward to," said Ganguly "but more than personal marks, I am keen to do my bit for the team to win the trophy."