The Bengal selectors have taken a bold decision by excluding stalwarts like Nikhil Haldipur and Wrichik Mazumdar from the list of probables announced for the first couple of matches of the ensuing Ranji Trophy season. Haldipur and Majumdar, who have been regular members of the side for the last couple of seasons were dropped mainly because their performance has taken a nosedive. However, the chairman of the selection committee Ashok Malhotra said that the moment they return to form, they will be considered once more.

Malhotra said in Calcutta today, "Both are talented players and I sincerely hope that they get back to form very quickly. We had no option but to drop them from the 26 probables simply because they have failed to perform according to expectations."

The selectors have also named Devang Gandhi as vice captain, a position which was occupied by Utpal Chatterjee last year. Malhotra said that whenever Saurav Ganguly will be available, he will lead the side. In his absence the mantle will be donned by Gandhi.

A training camp for the 26 probables will start in all probability from October 19. The selectors have also decided to lay more stress on younger players. As a result, players like Subhamoy Das, Shabbir Ali, Sujay Parui and Shiv Shankar Pal have been taken in the list of probables. All the four had represented the state at the under-19 level last year.

© CricInfo