I'am focussing on Test match: Ganguly

By Our Sports Reporter

BANGALORE, FEB. 28. The first impression that Sourav Ganguly gives is that he clearly disproves the saying `uneasy lies the head that wears the crown.' Sachin's abdication from captaincy has meant that the `maharaja' has been given the reins and he is confident that India's cricketing misfortunes will soon see a reversal.

Sourav Ganguly's path to leadership of the Indian one- day side would never have occurred especially after his disastrous first ever tour of Australia in 1991-92. `` I never thought I would be back in the Indian side, let alone think of captaincy,'' Sourav candidly admitted at the Chinnaswamy stadium here today. ``Yes to lead the side is a great honour and I'm very happy but it was only after I was back in the side and given the opportunity to lead the country in Toronto did I ever think I could one day be at the helm.''

The captaincy is in Sourav's hands but now his priority is the final Test against South Africa. `` I'm focussing on the Test match at present and only mid-way through the Test will I give it any serious consideration. I have had some preliminary discussions with coach Kapil Dev but we will put our heads together later during the game,'' Sourav said.

Speaking succinctly when quizzed Sourav said `` off hand I would think the Indian one-day squad needs to develop the ability to bowl well during the slog overs as well as upgrade our fielding by at least ten per cent immediately. We cannot suddenly improve our standards but in time we should be a much sharper fielding side.''

Sourav strongly felt that players once selected to represent the country should be given at least two or three seasons to prove their mettle. `` I am not for selecting players based one or too good showings. Players should prove their worth on a regular basis in domestic circuit and then be chosen to play for their country. I also feel that age should not be a criterion, if a 37- year-old is performing better than a 19-year- old then the former should be in the side, '' the captain incumbent added.

Sourav also said, ``I do not think we are playing too much cricket. Our itinerary has been set for the next couple of years. Australia and Pakistan too have a busy schedule ahead. We cricketers should realise that cricket is our profession and we should concentrate and play seriously for the next ten years or so. After that we can think of relaxing.''

Signing off on a positive note on the Test match, Sourav said `` I think if we post a total of 320 or so in the first innings and grab a good lead we should win the game.''

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