I am glad I kept myself ready for the occasion, says Ganguly

Kolkata: It may not be a comeback in the true sense of the term, but Sourav Ganguly's call-up to the Test squad was nothing short of extraordinary. Retirement talks filled the air when the former Indian skipper was dumped out of the Rest of India squad for Irani Trophy, while he was not even a member of the preparatory camp now underway in Bangalore.

As the following conversation reveals, Ganguly has put it all behind him and is ready to take a fresh guard.

Gulf News: One more comeback?

Ganguly: This is not a comeback. I was there at Colombo when India played their last Test match. India would play the next Test match at Bangalore and the selectors have reposed faith in me. That's why they have given me a chance to continue.

'Comeback' in the sense you were not picked for the Irani Trophy?

There are innumerable instances where an Indian cricketer did not take part in the Irani Trophy but was yet picked for the national team. I am not an exception in that regard.

You looked very confident even four or five days before the selection committee meeting...

I knew I may get a chance. Hence, I decided to give it a go. Since I did not do well in Sri Lanka, I was concentrating hard in the nets with the hope that if the opportunity comes in the last minute, I should not feel awkward. I am happy with the way I kept myself busy.

Is it true that you contacted selection committee members to play against New Zealand A team at Chennai?

Yes. I needed match practice. So that was the only option available at the moment. I am glad our selectors have given me that opportunity.

Is it true that you told the BCCI officials that you would quit soon?

Not to my knowledge. I haven't thought anything about retirement. I am focused only at the forthcoming Australia series.

What motivates you still?

There are quite a few 35-plus cricketers, they are an inspiration. However, nothing inspires me more than my own performances.

At 36, you have not lost the hunger for the game...

Look today I am focused on Test cricket only. Age is an issue only in India. Look at Sanath Jayasuriya, who is 39 and still an integral part of the Sri Lanka's one-day team. Muttiah Muralitharan is 36. Matthew Hayden, too, is going strong at 36.

Jagmohan Dalmiya offered you Bengal captaincy in the coming season?

Yes, but I have told him no. Since I'll be busy playing for the country, I won't be able to lead Bengal.

Your Knight Riders are practising now at Brisbane under the watchful eyes of John Buchanan.

Yes. I have been getting the news from Brisbane through my friend Joydeep Mukherjee, who is there as cricket manager of the team.