Ganguly says charge of influencing team selection ‘baseless’

From Covid-19 disruptions to allegations that he has tried to influence selectors to criticism that not enough has been done for women’s cricket during his tenure, Sourav G a n g u l y has endured a challenging 26 months as BCCI President. But in an interview the former India captain not just rejected the accusations thrown at him but also offered a gentle reminder to his critics -- much before becoming the BCCI boss, he was a celebrated India cricketer and played in a whopping 424 international matches, 113 of them Tests.

On allegations...

“I don’t think I need to answer anybody anything (on this) and dignify any of these baseless accusations. I am the president of BCCI and I do the job of what the president of BCCI should be doing.”

On captaincy...

“There are certain parameters of leadership and whoever fits the bill will be the next Indian Test captain. I believe selectors will have a name in mind and they will discuss it with office-bearers -- President and Secretary -- and it will be announced in due course of time.”

On Hardik Pandya...

“Hardik was injured and a break was given to him to completely recover, so that he can continue to serve Indian cricket for a long period of time. I believe I will see him play some Ranji Trophy to start with. I expect him to bowl a lot more overs and his body will get stronger. Also he is now captain of Ahmedabad IPL and that will be a platform where his form and fitness will be checked by selectors. Accordingly, they will take a call.”  (PTI)