India head coach Rahul Dravid has denied that India are not on their way to adopt split captaincy. On the eve of third ODI against New Zealand, Dravid put an end to speculations that the idea of split captaincy has not been discussed with him.
"Not that I am aware of (India adopting split captaincy). That’s a question you need to ask the selectors but as of now, I don’t think so," Dravid said at the pre-match press conference on January 23.
Hardik Pandya has been leading India in T20Is since the semi-final defeat to England in T20 World Cup 2022. Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma has not played a single T20I since the World Cup exit. However, he is yet to take a call on his future in T20Is.
"We have three T20Is against New Zealand. We will see what happens after IPL. I have not decided to give up the format," Rohit had said before the ODI series against Sri Lanka.
Ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy which will decide whether India will qualify for the World Test Championship (WTC) final or not, Dravid has ruled out of the possibility of any one getting released from the Test squad for Ranji Trophy quarter-finals.
"We would really like that the boys are able to play but it is a tough one for us. I think the quarters are on 31st or 1st and the build-up to Border Gavaskar is at exactly the same time," Dravid said.
On the other hand, a player or two may get released for the semi-final or final clash if they are not part of the remaining Tests.
"Obviously, in the build-up to a big tournament like that, we won't be able to release any players but when the series starts and an opportunity presents itself where someone is not playing and is required in the semifinal or final then we will certainly look at it.
"We have already agreed that the selectors will not be touching anyone playing the quarterfinal of the Ranji Trophy."
Dravid also hinted that the team management may look to make some changes in the playing XI for the dead rubber. He refused to call the third ODI against a second-string New Zealand side as formality. Instead he feels that it is an opportunity for players.
"It's definitely not a formality, there is an opportunity to give the guys sitting outside who are in our plans some game time.
"It is important to win matches and series but you also have to give enough experience to your squad.
"So that when there is an injury to someone those players are able to play in big tournaments. So it’s nice that we have got the opportunity but this match is not a formality," Dravid said.
