Pragyan Ojha to join Bengal in order to revive his international career

Ojha wants to impress selectors in the Ranji Trophy

The latest in the domestic transfers is the news of the impending transfer of Pragyan Ojha from Hyderabad to Bengal. This is the second high-profile transfer from Hyderabad in the recent seasons, with Ambati Rayadu being the first.

The Hyderabad Cricket Association gave permission to Ojha regarding the transfer, the HCA secretary, John Manoj, said. The CAB joint secretary, too, gave a positive affirmation. “It is still work in progress," Ganguly told ESPNcricinfo. "We may take a few days more to arrive at a decision."

The process for domestic transfers involves getting a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the home association and then submitting it to the BCCI. Transfers must be done before September 1. The only procedure that remains before Ojha officially becomes a part of Bengal for the next season is formal approval of the CAB executive committee.

Ojha wants to get his spot back in the national side and therefore he wanted to play against the top teams in the Ranji Trophy. However, Hyderabad is placed in the lowest group of the tournament. Unlike Rayudu’s move, which involved a spat with the HCA hierarchy, Ojha’s move has been quite smooth. This is because he has been clear and honest about his intentions.

“He approached us and explained his rationale honestly," Manoj said. "Once he had made up his mind, we just respected his decision, supported him and issued the NOC."

Bengal welcomed Ojha with open arms as their team needed a lead spinner. This is not the only major change that Bengal will be seeing in the new season. They have approached Lalchand Rajput to replace their coach Ashok Malhotra. Rajput has been in negotiations with Uttar Pradesh, who too are looking to replace their coach, Venkatesh Prasad.

Ojha was suspended due to his bowling action earlier and was cleared to bowl in February 2015. The new season will start next month, where Ojha will play for India A against Australia A in two four-day games.