On the morning his inclusion in the Indian Test squad was being decided, Sourav Ganguly displayed his multi-utility value by running through the Maharashtra top order. He’d claimed four wickets when the news of his Test status came; by stumps, he’d added a fifth for good measure.
‘Who writes your script’, a more qualified all-rounder was asked several years ago but, with figures of 5/64, this was a dream day for Ganguly.
There was a celebratory air in the Bengal camp this evening as the news spread. The first congratulatory message came from the hosts Maharashtra Cricket Association, who sent Ganguly a bouquet as the team walked in for tea.
‘‘Definitely, everybody is very happy. He has done well and deserves a place in the team,’’ said Bengal coach Paras Mhambrey.
Bengal manager Samir Das Gupta was seen busy with his phone, receiving greeting on behalf of Sourav. Asked if there’d be a party, his reply was sharp: Why party, he has 15,000 international runs to his name.