Yuvraj, Sehwag unlikely to feature in World Cup squad, says Ganguly

Oct 19: Former captain Sourav Ganguly on Saturday ruled out Virender Sehwag and Yuvraj Singh‘s chances of staging a comeback to the Indian team for next year’s One-Day International (ODI) ICC World Cup 2015. "It will be difficult for Sehwag and Yuvraj to play in this World Cup. Because World Cup is so near and Dhoni won’t make many changes in the side," a candid Ganguly said at the Salaam Cricket Conclave organised by 'Aaj Tak'.

Ganguly, who was known for unearthing talents during his tenure as skipper, though lavished praised on Yuvraj and Sehwag and called them genuine match-winners.

"They were great players, one of the best I have seen but time catches up with everyone and so is the case with Viru and Yuvi," Ganguly said at the ‘Salaam Cricket Conclave’, a day- long event .

Ganguly believes that the Indian cricket team has a realistic chance of defending the world title in the tournament slated to be held in Australia and New Zealand form February next year.

"India has a quality ODI team though they have not done well in Tests abroad. But in ODI there is a good chance," he said. Pointing out that every team needs some x-factors to go the distance, Ganguly said this Indian team has that. “India have four or five good quality players and these will be crucial x-factors for the team to do well Down Under," he said.

Praising both Virat Kohli and Suresh Raina for their superlative shows with the bat, Ganguly mentioned that India’s performance in the upcoming quadrennial event will depend on how these two perform.

"Virat has done well in overseas conditions. He has played match-winning innings in South Africa and Australia. Lot will be depend on him. If he does well India will put up a good show. "Raina has done very well recently. He has been consistent but it will also be a challenge for him to carry that form to Australia." Ganguly feels that apart form India, four other teams also have a chance to clinch the Cup.