Monty Panesar
Credits: Espncricinfo

In August 2019, Monty Panesar said, he would love to feature in the Ranji Trophy. But it did not take the out of top-tier cricketer long to realise that his dream cannot be fulfilled.

His dream to play in Ranji Trophy was dashed solely because he holds an Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) and for a cricketer to play in the prestigious tournament it is mandatory to hold Indian citizenship.

But despite the setback, Panesar still hopes to play in Ranji trophy someday.

I have an Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI): Monty Panesar

Monty Panesar
Monty Panesar (Credits – Getty)

“I don’t have Indian citizenship and I have an Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) which does not qualify me to play Ranji Trophy,” Panesar said in an exclusive interview to CricketAddictor.

His dream to play in the Ranji trophy came in a bid to resume his professional career. He has also been struggling to find a county team to feature in. And for the Ranji trophy, Panesar wanted to feature for Puducherry, which now looks like a distinct dream.

Monty Panesar wants England youngsters to step up

Exclusive: "Can't Play Ranji Trophy Due To OCI" - Monty Panesar
Monty Panesar. Credit: AFP

The England U-19 team did not fare well in the World Cup, a year after the senior national team won the marquee tournament in an unconvincing manner. The youth side was knocked out of the tournament after their two-wicket loss to Australia.

Panesar feels the England U-19 team should take a leaf out of the Indian colts’ book, who have always done well in the tournament.

“I see India always doing well in the U-19 World Cup and it has always been a stepping stone to the international team, so it is important for England to perform well in U-19 World cup, especially since they won the World Cup,” Panesar said.

Panesar made his last Test appearance in 2013 against Australia. He recently published a book, The Full Monty, in which he has spoken about his career in length.

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