Sourav Ganguly supports selectors’ decision to exclude Pujara and Rahane from India’s Test squad for the South Africa tour.
In a significant shift, the upcoming two-match Test series in South Africa will mark India’s first without either Cheteshwar Pujara or Ajinkya Rahane in the squad since 2006. Both stalwarts, who debuted in their teens, have been constants on South African tours. However, the Rohit Sharma-led side will embark on this tour without their experienced presence.
India won’t feature Pujara or Rahane in the XI, a departure from a longstanding trend. In the 100 Tests since Rahane’s debut in 2013, they were part of India’s XI in 98 matches, with exceptions in two matches against Sri Lanka in 2022.
Pujara faced exclusion before the West Indies series, while Rahane retained his position due to a resilient half-century in the WTC finals. The latest squad announcement indicates a shift in the selectors’ strategy.
Former BCCI president Sourav Ganguly acknowledged the selectors’ move, emphasizing that no one can remain forever. Appreciating the contributions of Pujara and Rahane, Ganguly noted the inevitability of introducing fresh talents to keep the team progressing.
“At some point in time, you have to play new talents. It happens; there is enormous talent in India, and the team has to progress. Pujara and Rahane had enormous success for India; sport doesn’t remain with you forever,” said Ganguly.
