‘You cannot be there forever’ - Sourav Ganguly as India drop Rahane, Pujara from Test squad

The BCCI recently announced India's squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against South Africa. As many veterans were named in the Test squad, two big names that were missing were Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara. The two senior batters were omitted from the squad as youngsters like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ruturaj Gaikwad were included.

Many believe this to be the end for Rahane and Pujara in red-ball cricket for Team India. Speaking of the same, former Indian skipper Sourav Ganguly gave his take on the matter as well. The 51-year-old opined that sport will not remain with anyone forever and there will always be a time to give the chance to the younger players, which is ready to represent India at the highest level.

“At some point in time, you have to play with new talents. It happens; there is enormous talent in India, and the team has to progress. Pujara and Rahane had enormous success for India; sport doesn't remain with you forever," Ganguly was quoted as saying by NDTV.

You cannot be there forever; it will happen to everyone: Sourav Ganguly

Furthermore, Ganguly highlighted the fact that a player cannot be at the highest level forever and that what happened with the senior duo happens to everyone. The 51-year-old also thanked Pujara and Rahane for their services to international cricket but also realised the importance of young blood’s induction in the squad. 

"You cannot be there forever; it will happen to everyone. I must thank them for what they have done for Indian cricket, and selectors want fresh faces, so that's the way it is,” he added.

It is worth noting that India will play South Africa in a multi-format series consisting of three T20Is, three ODIs, and two Test matches. The Test series is set to kick off on December 26 in Centurion. The second Test will be played from January 3 in Cape Town.