The door is ajar, not slammed, insists Ganguly

New Delhi, Sep 1 (UNI) Sourav Ganguly admits he probably does not fit into Team India's scheme of things for the moment but the die-hard optimist believes that the door has not been slammed on him, it's just ajar.

In a candid interview with CNN-IBN, arguably the most controversial contemporary cricketer oozed confidence of a comeback and insisted despite the stream of incidents since he was stripped off the captaincy, he and Rahul Dravid remain the closest of friends.

Ganguly confessed losing captaincy and then his place in the side hit him where it hurts most but he remains hopeful of a comeback.

''Obviously it hurts and it will hurt not just me but anyone. But I do not let that dampen my spirits and I keep my hopes alive.

''I think I am in serious contention for the World Cup and that it would be difficult for the selectors to ignore me if I continue to score big runs in domestic cricket. I want to score runs, runs and more runs so that the world realises that there's lots of cricket left in me,'' he said.

And playing without captaincy won't be an issue with him, assures Ganguly.

''No hard feelings on that. And such an issue will not bother me at all. All my wishes as a captain have been fulfilled. And I am a complete team man. I think its time for someone else to face the battering ram,'' he quipped.

The southpaw also had an explanation for his exclusion as well even though he believes it's a temporary phase.

''...perhaps I am not fitting into their scheme of things at this point of time but that does not mean the life is over...I feel both the youngsters and seniors in the side will have to consistently perform in the side to retain their places. And if I perform well - which I am hoping to do-in the domestic series, then I am sure the selectors will take a serious look at me,'' he explained.

Asked if he still has a cordial relationship with his former deputy and successor Rahul Dravid, Ganguly said, ''Yes, it is. We are the best of friends.'' Ganguly also rubbished claims that his well-documented argument in Pakistan with Dravid and coach Greg Chappell was over his place of choice in the batting order.

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