Dalmiya bats for Sourav

And he did that going as far as deciding to shoot off a letter to the BCCI, asking it to take up the matter with the Dilip Vengsarkar-led selection panel.

The sharp reaction from Dalmiya follows many others in the cricketing fraternity who have called for an immediate overhaul of the Indian team following the dismal showing in South Africa now.

8220;Going by the manner in which Sourav played there Ranji Trophy match against Punjab at Mohali, he deserves a place in the Indian team. It8217;s not the runs that he8217;s scored, but the way in which he played that I feel like this.

In fact, having discussed the matter with the CAB members, we have decided to write to the Board, asking it take up the matter with the selection committee.

8220;Sourav should be considered in the Indian team, that will be our request 8212; before it8217;s too late,8221; Dalmiya told mediapersons today after a Working Committee meeting.