Sourav Ganguly, synonymous with leadership and cricketing finesse, holds a treasure trove of experiences in steering India towards the zenith of ICC events. From propelling an emerging team to the final of the ICC KnockOut Trophy in 2000 to guiding them to the pinnacle of the ICC World Cup three years later, Ganguly’s captaincy left an indelible mark on Indian cricket.
In the wake of MS Dhoni’s epoch-making tenure that saw India amass major trophies, Ganguly’s contribution in nurturing young talents into match-winners is commendable. As India sets its sights on the ICC World Cup they’re hosting, Ganguly’s insights shed light on the expectations and challenges ahead.
Ganguly’s leadership is etched in the annals of cricket history. Under his guidance, a young Indian side defied the odds to reach the finals of the ICC Knockout Trophy in 2000, defeating cricket giants Australia and South Africa en route. The Prince of Kolkata’s captaincy prowess continued as he led India to the final ICC World Cup in 2003, imprinting his legacy as a visionary leader.
The era following MS Dhoni’s illustrious reign has seen India fall short of securing a 50-over World Cup victory. The thirst for an ICC trophy has remained unquenched since India’s triumph in the 2013 Champions Trophy. Despite Dhoni’s glory-laden years, Ganguly’s tenure bridges past achievements and future aspirations.
With the ICC World Cup returning to Indian shores for the first time since 2011, Ganguly believes the onus rests on the premier batters to reclaim the coveted title. At an event hosted by Cycle Pure Agarbathi, he asserted, “Batting will be the key. The World Cup, Asia Cup, and home series against Australia are distinct challenges. Success hinges on their performance during the World Cup.”
“You cannot win World Cups all the time; there will be bad times and gaps. They will have to bat very well; if they bat well, they will win. The World Cup is different, the Asia Cup is different, and the Australia home series is different. Every tournament depends on how they play that particular moment. India is a strong side, but they have to play well during the World Cup,” Ganguly said at an event organized by Cycle Pure Agarbathi.
Reflecting on India’s squad for the upcoming Asia Cup, Ganguly noted the potential for Yuzvendra Chahal, who was omitted from the roster. Ganguly opined that Chahal’s exclusion could be temporary, especially considering his prowess. He also lauded the selectors’ choice of Axar Patel due to his batting abilities, which adds a strategic dimension to the team.
“They have picked Axar Patel ahead of Chahal because of his Batting. So I think it’s a good selection. Chahal can still come back if someone gets injured. This is a 17-member squad; two, in any case, will have to move out,” Ganguly said.
The return of KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer to India’s squad for the Asia Cup is a significant development. Ganguly expressed confidence in Rahul’s fitness, dispelling concerns of an injury. Rahul’s versatility and form make him an asset as a wicketkeeper-batter for the Asia Cup.
Ganguly highlighted the inclusion of Ishan Kishan as a wicketkeeper-batter in India’s 17-member squad. Kishan’s selection serves as backup to openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, reinforcing the team’s depth. As the former champions embark on their Asia Cup journey, the clash against Pakistan on September 2 sets the stage for a high-stakes encounter.
Sourav Ganguly’s insights unveil the strategic mindset that has always defined his cricketing journey. As India readies itself to embrace the challenge of hosting and triumphing in the ICC World Cup, Ganguly’s words reverberate as a reminder of the team’s legacy and aspirations.
