In an exclusive interview with Star Sports, former India captain Sourav Ganguly provided invaluable insights into the strength and potential of the Indian cricket team. Ganguly’s perspective sheds light on the team’s impressive attributes, highlighting their formidable qualities, particularly with the return of the exceptional bowler, Jasprit Bumrah. Let’s delve into Ganguly’s perspective and his take on India’s cricketing prowess.
Ganguly’s enthusiasm was palpable as he discussed the significance of Jasprit Bumrah’s return to the team. The former captain emphasized that Bumrah’s presence makes the team even stronger. He hailed India’s bowling attack as exceptional, specifically noting the prowess of Bumrah, along with the contributions of Shami and Siraj. Ganguly’s appraisal underscores the potency of India’s fast bowling unit.
In the interview, Ganguly didn’t just focus on the pace attack; he also praised the spin options at India’s disposal. He mentioned Jadeja and the wrist spinners, highlighting their role in maintaining the team’s balance. Moreover, Ganguly commended India’s batting line-up, labelling it as top-notch. This nod to bowling and batting strengths showcases Ganguly’s keen observation of the team’s dynamics.
Former India captain Sourav Ganguly said, “It’s a very strong team. Bumrah is back, which makes the team even stronger. The bowling attack is very good, Shami, Bumrah, Siraj. You can’t get a better fast bowling attack. And the spin, Jadeja, the wrist spinner. Top batters. India is a fantastic side, who just have to turn up and play good, determined cricket during the Asia Cup and the World Cup.”
Addressing a long-standing concern, Ganguly offered his perspective on the contentious number 4 batting position. Drawing from his own experience, he challenged the notion of predetermined positions. Ganguly emphasized that adaptability and talent are paramount, citing examples of his transformation as a player.
Ganguly’s belief that “Number 4 is just a number” resonates strongly. He argued that players are not confined to specific batting positions, drawing parallels to his and Sachin Tendulkar’s journeys. This perspective highlights the depth of India’s talent pool, with players like Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, and KL Rahul capable of excelling at this crucial position.
Ganguly further spoke, “Number 4 is just a number. Anybody can fit in. So, I don’t think I believed that anybody was born as an opener or at number 3 or 4, even when I was playing. You know, I started in the middle order in one-day cricket and then went on to open because I was asked to do so by Sachin then as captain. I think it’s the same thing with Sachin. He batted at number 6 till his captain asked him to open, and he became a world-class player.”
“One minor injury, you will play IPL but not for India”: Kapil Dev’s Scathing Attack At Indian Star Player
Ganguly countered the notion of scarcity, asserting that India’s challenge lies in having too much talent. Drawing an analogy, he likened the situation to having numerous homes to choose from. The abundance of choices can lead to decision paralysis. This unique analogy underscores the rich cricketing talent India possesses.
Ganguly’s final assertion that “One batting slot does not make much of a difference” sums up his pragmatic view. He implies that while the number 4 position is crucial, the broader team dynamics and collective effort define a successful cricketing unit.
Ganguly explained, “Anybody can play at number 4, you know? Virat Kohli can bat at number 4, and there is Shreyas Iyer, once he does well in the Asia Cup. There’s KL Rahul. India has enormous talent. I keep hearing that we don’t have this, we don’t have that, we have too much, that’s the problem, that you can’t decide. See, when you have too many homes to stay, you can’t decide which one is more comfortable for you. If you have one, you know that’s the place I can stay. So, I think number 4 is what Rahul, the selectors, and Rohit need to do; decide that this is my number 4, and I will continue with him until the World Cup. One batting slot does not make much of a difference.”
