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Published 15:54 IST, October 31st 2024

'IPL retention has nothing to...': Gautam Gambhir's No Nonsense Reply Ahead of IND vs NZ 3rd Test

Ahead of the start of the Wankhede Test, coach Gautam Gambhir addressed some relevant queries. He gave a precise answer when asked about IPL 2025 retentions.

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Gautam Gambhir at the press conference
Gautam Gambhir at the press conference | Image: X/@BCCI
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The IPL and international cricket have overlapped on numerous occasions but this time the country which has brought the tournament to existence has found itself in the middle of two events happening simultaneously. However, the ever-determined coach of Team India, Gautam Gambhir , has made it known that the full focus is on India vs New Zealand 3rd Test and the IPL Retention does not hold any sort of distraction. India have already lost the series 0-2 and would be seeking to salvage pride in 3rd and final Test.

Also Read | ‘Going Forward, Obviously’: Gambhir on India Having A Separate Test Team

Gautam Gambhir 's Firm Reply When Asked About IPL Retentions

Ahead of the start of the Wankhede Test, coach Gautam Gambhir addressed some relevant queries. He gave a precise answer when asked whether Harshit Rana could be included in the playing XI for the 3rd Test, and also clearly put out his thoughts on IPL retention.

He also ruled out bringing new players for the final Test.

"We are not in a situation where can think of that (giving chance to players who have not played)," Gambhir doused the speculations of an imminent debut being handed to Harshit Rana as reported in some quarters.

"Harshit Rana is not part of the squad. He has just come here to prepare for the Australia tour, Abhishek (Nayar) made it clear yesterday. IPL retention has nothing to be spoken about, we have a Test match here.

"Everyone is available for selection, we will take a call tomorrow." Gambhir admitted that the Test series defeat hurt the team but said it should spur the team to do better in future.

Also Read | Easwaran, Reddy Struggle on Bouncy Surface as India A Shot Out for 107

IND vs NZ 3rd Test: Preview

New Zealand scripted history by becoming the first team in twelve years to beat India in India in a Test series. The Kiwis attained a handsome win in Bengaluru and took the momentum to rattle India in Pune. Battered and bruised Team India would now be looking for a consolation win and also to stop New Zealand from making further history of delivering a clean sweep to India at home. Therefore, the 3rd Test holds vital importance for Rohit Sharma and his men. It would be intriguing to witness how India would approach the rare situation when they have lost the series at home and yearn to gain crucial momentum ahead of the much-anticipated Border Gavaskar Series. The third India vs New Zealand Test will begin on November 1, 2024.

15:51 IST, October 31st 2024