No approach from Kochi IPL: Ganguly

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KOLKATA: Former India captain Sourav Ganguly, who was ignored by IPL franchises at the players' auction, on Thursday rubbished speculation that he was now being approached by Kochi through an open bidding process.

The most successful India captain, who found no takers from the 10 franchises in the IPL auction, said it was a media speculation that he was in talks with the team owned by Rendezvous Sports.

"I don't know much about Kochi, it seems you guys know more... Well till now, I've not been approached by any team," Ganguly told reporters during a promotional programme here.

Ganguly further said Sachin Tendulkar deserves to get the Bharat Ratna.

"As I've said earlier, he should get it. In near future, he should be getting it."

Media reports had said the Kochi IPL had contacted other teams to get a no-objection certificate (NOC) from them to rope in the left-hander.

As per the IPL rule, Ganguly can again be part of the IPL through an open bidding process if all the 10 franchises have no objection to the move.

The biggest cricketing extravangaza, World Cup, round the corner in the subcontinent and the temperature soaring high about India's prospects, Ganguly urged the fans to stand by the Mahendra Sing Dhoni and his men in wins and even in losses.

"If we win, it will be fantastic. But even if we don't win (the World Cup) we will still support you. It's a very good and settled side with a great bunch of boys," Ganguly said.

Ganguly also said Indian selectors should have opted for a second wicket-keeper and medium-pacer Sreesanth.

"As I've said earlier, Sreesanth should have been taken. Every team will be coming with two wicketkeepers. So, it's important that Dhoni is fit."

Asked about the favourites, Ganguly said: "All of them will be bringing their best sides. Australia have a strong pace attack in guys like (Brett) Lee and (Shaun) Tait. Pakistan with its talent should be the darkhorse. South Africa will have (Jacques) Kallis while the West Indies boast of a strong batting line-up."

He also expressed confidence that Eden Gardens would be ready in time amidst fears that the renovation work is going way behind schedule.

"I'm sure it will be completed and be ready in time for the (four) World Cup matches," Ganguly said.

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