Up for second game, Ishant included for Ranji opener

“Ishant Sharma has confirmed his availability from the second Ranji Trophy match but we are including him in the team right now," DDCA sports secretary Sunil Dev said in a one-sentence media release.

Delhi’s second Ranji game is against Vidarbha at home from October 8 to 11.

Delhi & Districts Cricket Association quickly moved to damage control mode after originally leaving out the wiry pacer from the Ranji Trophy squad after he had not responded to phone calls and text messages.

Wiry Ishant, who was not picked in the limited-overs squads to play South Africa, had taken 13 during India’s Test series victory over Sri Lanka last month.

Sharma was slapped with a one-Test ban after admitting to charges of misconduct during the third and final Test against Sri Lanka that will see him miss the first Test against South Africa starting in Mohali on November 5.

He is currently training at the National preparatory camp in Bengaluru.

“He is our senior bowler… but we tried to get in touch with him yesterday, but he didn't respond. I left a text, but didn't get a reply,” Delhi’s chief selector Vinay Lamba had told domestic media.

“Also, we don't know whether he can play a first-class match during the period of his ban. If he is eligible to play we will add him in the squad.”

Delhi cricket has been riddled with politics with three different factions releasing three different lists for the state preparatory camp.

The team will be coached by Ajay Jadeja, who has been nominated and approved by Government nominees.