It was umpire's decision: Ganguly

KIMBERLEY, OCT. 13. India captain Sourav Ganguly said he did not `withdraw the appeal', but umpire Dave Orchard re-called Kenyan allrounder Thomas Odoyo after he had earlier ruled him out.

Orchard, who was the square-leg umpire, was seen talking to the third umpire Wilf Diedricks and trying to draw the attention of Odoyo to inform him that he had changed his decision. Odoyo returned to bat after he had crossed the field of play. Orchard had not consulted the third umpire before raising his finger.

Ganguly appeared quite happy to have finished a neat job. Sitting next to him was John Wright. ``It was a professional performance by the team. The boys did not wait for things to happen. Ajit (Agarkar) has responded well to a wake up call. ``Today's performance must act as a confidence booster,'' said Wright, adding that he was not a great fan of making changes, when asked if the decision was right to send Deep Dasgupta and Virendra Sehwag as openers. It was Ganguly's decision to change the opening pair. He said: ``I think the lower order batsmen also must get opportunities.''

Both Wright and Ganguly said they have not had the time to think about the composition of the team for the Test series which the national selectors are going to pick in 10 days' time.

``But I think the youngsters here can perform and stake their claims,'' said Wright.

- Our Special Correspondent

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Section  : Sport
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