Ravi Shastri has had enough of the controversy surrounding Sourav Ganguly's absence

Ganguly had to attend a CAB meeting when Ravi Shastri was interviewed

After being overlooked for the role of Indian coach, Ravi Shastri does not want to mull on the disappointment and instead intends to move on. Speaking to PTI, the former team director has asserted that he wants to close the chapter surrounding Sourav Ganguly’s absence while being interviewed.

Ganguly, a part of the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) alongside Sachin Tendulkar and VVS Laxman, was unable to participate during Shastri’s prescribed time slot. He had to attend a meeting with the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) in his capacity as the President.

However, Shastri did not choose to dissect the selection process and believed, “The chapter is over as far as I am concerned. I firmly believe that it is time to move on. I have nothing more to add or say in this regard. 

The erstwhile all-rounder added, “Nothing on Sourav. I have had enough of this. I don't need to say anything. I was abroad and since I have comeback yesterday night, I have not had time to rest.”

Shastri had given his interview through video-conferencing from Thailand where he was taking a personal vacation. In the end, talismanic leg-spinner Anil Kumble got the panel’s nod for the post.

Earlier, Ganguly remained non-committal on the whole issue and stated, “The (coach selection) interview is absolutely confidential. I don’t want to talk about Shastri’s comment. You should also ask the other members of the (cricket) advisory committee.”

A senior BCCI official threw light on possible cold vibes between the two veterans. He felt, “Ganguly has always felt that Shastri as a renowned commentator has never really given him due credit for transforming the Indian team. “

The official insisted, “Similarly, Shastri must have had a feeling that Ganguly who harboured aspirations of being national coach, wanted to undermine his position. But to be fair, if Sourav saw Anil's presentation, he should have been present during Ravi's interview as well.”

Kumble will join the Indian squad before the upcoming 4-Test series in West Indies. Sanjay Bangar and Abhay Sharma have been chosen to accompany him for the tour.