India has to start winning overseas to be held in respect in cricket world: Ganguly

Melbourne, Jan 30(ANI): Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly has stressed on the need for Indian cricket to take stock of the situation, with a special focus on assessing their performances outside the subcontinent following their whitewashes in the Test series against England and Australia,

Ganguly said that assessing overseas performances should be a priority because India has always performed well at home but the team's respect hinges on its oversees performances.

He said that the future strategy should be devised on proper analysis and sensible planning.

Ganguly admitted that 4-0 whitewash in the Test series has been a nightmare for the coach Duncan Fletcher, who has lost 11 of his 12 matches.

Referring to the speculation of Rahul Dravid's retirement, he said such rumours and judgements are passed when the team does not perform well.

"It's important to let the series soak in, not let it affect the upcoming commitments too much but at the same time take proper notice of the situation and deal with it," The Sydney Morning Herald quoted him, as saying.

"I don't disagree that performance is the sole criteria in picking teams, and the seniors need to be handled well," he added.

He stressed that a good team comprises a combination of both youngsters and experienced players and that the cricket fraternity should be respectful towards cricket stalwarts and allow them to take their retirement decisions on their own.

"The selectors will have to be careful that they don't let it go under the carpet as this is about India's reputation and a good strong Indian side is very important," he concluded. (ANI)