More praise for Kaif

Mohammed Kaif’s leadership quality at the Youth World Cup in Sri Lanka a few years back and his match-winning effort at the NatWest Trophy final at Lord's seem to have impressed chairman of selectors Kiran More so much that he feels the UP skipper can lead Indian in the future.

"Inshallah, Kaif will become the captain one day," said More, who is here to witness the Ranji Trophy final.

"It is too early to say now but Kaif has the guts to become the leader of the Men in Blue some time in the future."

More termed Kaif a hard-working person and a team- man, who plays for the team rather than himself.

Hope for Ganguly

More added that there would be some 'surprises' when the Indian team is announced for the home series against England.

"But the idea is to give a chance to the best in the business and make a strong combination for the 2007 World Cup", he said.

More said young talent was being nurtured with an eye on the 2007 World Cup. "But all the experienced players, including Ganguly, are open for selection any time," he maintained.

More however refused to comment on the non-inclusion of Sourav Ganguly in the ODI team for the Pak tour.  “The emphasis was on how to consolidate the bench strength for the World Cup next year.” he said.