Wright rules out major changes for second Test

Navarene · #1 December 15, 2004, 10:08 AM

Coach John Wright on Wednesday ruled out any major changes in the Indian team for the second cricket Test against Bangladesh, pouring cold water on the hopes of youngsters who were looking to make the grade against the minnows.

"There are a few youngsters in the team but the players must remember that they represent India and have to win their places," Wright said after a full practice session at the port city venue where the final Test begins on Friday.

The New Zealander's statement was in contradiction to skipper Sourav Ganguly who had hinted at giving youngsters a look-in after his side registered a huge win in the first Test earlier this week.

Wright was forthright in his disagreement with the opinion.

"I do feel for (Mohammad) Kaif and (Murali) Kartik who have done well against a tougher opposition. It is tough on them. And the others in the squad, who are learning about being on tour with the Indian team, have shown great attitude and work ethics.

India were in a spot of bother at 36 for three, with Mashrafe Mortaza exploiting the conditions to the full.

Vice-captain Rahul Dravid was stunned when he offered no stroke to a delivery that held its line and knocked his off stump.

Sachin Tendulkar proved to be the saviour with his record 34th Test century, but he too had an anxious start when he was dropped thrice before crossing the 50 mark.

"Laxman's was a beautiful innings... the young fast bowler (Mortaza) did pretty well and the ball moved around a bit. But we all know what Dravid is capable of.

"As I said, had they held those catches, it would have been a different game. So we have to make sure that we are not falling into a comfort zone."

More

chinaman · #2 December 15, 2004, 10:13 AM

On the contrary, Ganguly has something different in mind.

"We've some guys in the squad and will probably give them an opportunity in the second Test and also in the one-day series to come."

BBC: Ganguly hints at India changes >>

cricketfan · #3 December 16, 2004, 02:26 AM

On 15 December in interview with ESPNSTAR, Ganguly seconded Wright saying that the possibility of changes in his squad were remote. All the seniors were keen to play in the test. He also categorically denied that there was any talk of Sachin being rested.

The BBC report was one day older and may have been more speculation than fact.