Former India skipper Sourav Ganguly would be hoping that the new selection committee will push for his return into the India team.

Ignored by the Dilip Vengsarkar-led selection committee for the Irani Trophy, Ganguly is pinning his hopes on the newly-appointed selector from the East Zone, Raja Venkat for any chances of a comeback in the Indian team for the upcoming Test series against Australia.

Strongly hoping to be retained in the Test squad for the Australia series beginning October 9, Ganguly feels that the Venkat's appointment will benefit Bengal cricket.

Asked whether the former Bengal left-hander Venkat, who replaces former Orissa captain Ranjib Biswal, will push for his selection in the Australia Test squad, Ganguly replied, "Let's hope he tries... I hope to do well (in the Australia series) if selected... If not then let's see." "Venkat's appointment as the national selector from East Zone is really good. It's a great thing for Bengal cricket. The state will definitely get help from him," Ganguly told reporters at a function here today.

On the India-Australia series, the stylish Bengal batsman said, "India-Australia series have always been exciting. This time, I don't see any difference. It is difficult to predict who will come out winners but it will be very close finish." Ganguly further said India will look to capitalise on their spinners to wreck the Australian batting.

"Our spinners will be an advantage. We hope to do well in the series."