BACK IN THE HOT SEAT: Rahul Dravid will once again take over the reins. — File photo: V.V. Krishnan

MOHALI: In a decision termed "unanimous", the National selection committee on Thursday appointed Rahul Dravid as captain for the forthcoming one-day series against Sri Lanka and South Africa. Dravid replaces Sourav Ganguly, who led India in a record 49 Tests and 147 one-day internationals.

The reason for giving Dravid the mantle for two series was apparently to give the Karnataka batsman a fair run because the present committee could not have gone beyond the two series as a new committee will take over after the Board elections to be held before November 30.

Making the announcement here, the Board Secretary S.K. Nair said, "the decision was taken purely on cricketing merit and had nothing to do with the injury to Ganguly."

The left-hander has an injured right elbow, suffered during India's recent tour to Zimbabwe where India won both the Tests but lost the tri-series final to New Zealand.

On expected lines

The decision is on expected lines since the selectors were convinced it was time for Ganguly to "earn" his place in the team following his dismal run with the bat. "Now, it is for Ganguly to get back into form and regain his place," Mr. Nair said.

The selectors had been under pressure to effect a change following Ganguly's form with the bat and his infamous spat with coach Greg Chappell did not help matters.

Ganguly led India to victories in 21 Tests and 76 one-dayers to become its most successful captain ever. "His record and contribution was considered but the selectors felt it is time for a change," said Mr. Nair.

Dravid, who has captained India in five Tests and 17 one-dayers, had last led the team in the tri-series in Sri Lanka in August when Ganguly played under him. On that occasion, Dravid had not been taken into confidence about his tenure and the selectors brought back Ganguly for the Zimbabwe tour on the plea that he had not been removed as captain from the Sri Lankan tour and was only serving an ICC-imposed ban.

Ganguly will undergo a fitness Test in Mumbai on October 17 and if pronounced fit, will have to play the Duleep Trophy match against North at Rajkot from October 20. He is leading the East Zone team.

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