India skipper Sourav Ganguly will travel to Australia next month for a commercial shoot for team sponsor Sahara, and hopes to mix a bit of cricket on the trip.
But before that he will play in a double-wicket tournament in England, on August 6-7, partnering Virender Sehwag, who is currently playing for Leicestershire.
"I'm hoping to travel to Australia sometime between August 8 and 13 so that I'm back in time to attend the national camp in Bangalore, starting from August 14," Ganguly said.
Media reports had earlier indicated that the Indian captain is keen on a reconnaissance to Australia before the December tour.
Ganguly said he is interested in checking out the Australian wickets during his trip, but "I doubt if I can finish the shooting and find time for the inspection".
Earlier, reports said Board of Control for Cricket in India chief Jagmohan Dalmiya had inquired with Ganguly whether he wanted a pre-tour recce to Australia. Though Ganguly is believed to have showed interest, the board surprisingly stayed silent on the issue.
It wasn't yet clear if Ganguly will be travelling to Australia alone or the Sahara shoot will also include other Indian cricketers. The date of his trip hasn't been finalised yet.
Ganguly tried to parry questions about his reported request to Greg Chappell for some batting tips for the Indian team. He eventually admitted to contacting the former Australian batting great, but said the latter had politely refused because of time constraints.
The episode seems to be dying a quiet death because many influential quarters in the cricket Board are opposed to Chappell's involvement.
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