Ganguly confident of Manoj turnaround

Kolkata, Feb 3 (UNI) Sourav Ganguly today said debutante Bengal batsman Manoj Tewari would require more time to acclimatise to the conditions in Australia.

Manoj was bowled for two runs in his debut match at Gabba against Australia.

''Manoj is a good cricketer and has loads of runs in domestic cricket. He will do well the faster he can acclimatise with the weather and conditions in Australia. You cannot judge a cricketer form one match,'' Sourav said.

Reminded about the similarity of Manoj making his debut in Australia like he did in 1992, he said, ''That is really nice. I wish all the best. Hope he plays well for the country and makes us proud.'' Sourav also informed that Manoj had some discussions with him before he left for Australia.

''Just a few little words, some suggestions. He will turnaround given a chance,'' Ganguly said.

On whether he would play in the Duleep Trophy and Ranji ODIs, he said, ''I have not decided as yet. Let's see.'' Sourav had come to Eden Gardens to autograph the certificates of the blood doners on Frank Worrell Day. ''I am very happy to be back on this occasion here. I used to come here as a junior cricketer. It feels good to be a part of the tradition,'' he said.

Asked about India's chances in the tri-series also featuring Sri Lanka, he said, ''All are tough teams. I wish India luck.'' On whether he had any advice for the young brigade led by M S Dhoni, he said, ''What suggestions can I give. I can only wish them luck.'' It is evident that Ganguly was 'shocked' after being axed from the ODI team unceremoniously along with Rahul Dravid.

In a recent interview he said, ''Even I'm surprised I'm at home here and not at the Gabba.'' UNI BA PP CS GC1448