Ganguly calls for uniformity in punishments

The South African episode was fresh in his mind when in the Port Elizabeth Test six Indians, including himself, were hauled up by match refree Mike Denesse. The players were handed out suspension for allegedly showing dissent against the umpire on the field.

‘‘I have been saying that punishments are different for different cricketers. But this cannot go on forever,’’ Ganguly said.

Commenting on the forthcoming Australia-India series Down Under, Ganguly said, ‘‘They have not yet forgotten the Test series that they lost against India here. So they are going to do everything to stop us from winning. They are sure to provide us with tremendous excitement throughout the series.’’

The present Aussie side apart from being the best in the world has also earned a dubious reputation of being the ‘bad boys of world cricket’ as called by Mr Malcom Gray, the president of International Cricket Council (ICC) recently.

But Ganguly was willing to take the battle to the Aussies as it happened the last time in India. Steve Waugh acknowledged the guts of Ganguly calling him an aggressive man and the kind of captain India needed.

About Srinath’s retirement, Ganguly said: ‘‘I need Srinath. Let’s see if I can make him agree to play.’’

Ganguly said he would like to strengthen his side with five quality bowlers, of which three would be pacers. In that case he would be looking for a wicketkeeper or all-rounder who could also open.

Talking about the recent praises heaped on him by Wisden, Ganguly looked least flattered. ‘‘A few days back those who criticised and rubbished me are suddenly praising me. This is so surprising. I don’t give much importance to these, what we need to do now, is play well,’’ Ganguly said.