Sourav Ganguly back as CAB chief and minces no words

Guwahati: It was a foregone conclusion that the Prince of Calcutta would be back as the president of the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) after a period of six years.

And with no competition around, a cakewalk for former Indian skipper and Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) chief Sourav Ganguly.

All set to further revolutionize Bengal cricket that is basking for some resuscitation, Dada has his task cut out.

Quiz him about cricket in Bengal and pat comes his reply, "Bengal have played (Ranji) final twice. Cricket must develop, it's no rocket science."

And he adds, "I have worked as a President for 5 years before this as well. We will do what is best. There is an immense craze for cricket in India. There is a lot of talent. It will be our work to give direction to this talent..."

And Dada is looking forward to setting up more cricket academies – the Dumurjala Academy being one.

"Dumurjala Academy is on nine acres of land. It would be like Kalyani Academy but there would be floodlights and other state-of-the-art facilities. It's very near to the city, the plan has been sanctioned, it will take at least one, one and a half years. It will be an academy."

And on the sitting capacity of the Eden Gardens, he says, “"Whatever happens it would be after the T20 World Cup (1 lakh sitting arrangement) next year. It will take time. The lease has been renewed."

On Mithun Manhas set to take charge as the BCCI president, here we goes, "I congratulate him as it is a very big post. Being the President of the richest and most skilled board, the cricketers who play for India are an unbelievable talent. It is a huge responsibility to manage and guide them. I hope he will work really well along with his team..."

Now, when you have the legend before you, can you afford to skip your query on the ongoing Asia Cup, and of course the acrimonious relations between India and Pakistan?

"I told you before the first. Pakistan not as good as it used to be. Abhishek (Sharma), (Shubman) Gill, everyone India are a very good side."

On the India–South Africa Test match at the Eden Gardens on November 14, he says, "I've not really thought about it, there is still two months left. This will be a good Test match, South Africa being the world champions. I will think about it. Everything is there — good pitches, good crowd, infrastructure is there. You just have to hold it properly and make sure it's a good match. India and South Africa both are good sides, I'm sure it will be a good Test."

With Agency Inputs