News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/8th July 2024
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) recently honored former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly on his 52nd birthday, celebrating his illustrious career and enduring legacy in the sport. Fondly known as Dada and the Prince of Kolkata, Ganguly remains one of India’s most revered cricketing icons, having left an indelible mark both on and off the field.
In a heartfelt tribute shared on X (formerly Twitter), KKR expressed their admiration, saying, “Maharaja. Dada. The Prince of Kolkata. Happy Birthday, Sourav Ganguly!”
Ganguly’s association with KKR holds a special place in his cricketing journey. He led the Kolkata-based franchise during the 2008 and 2010 IPL seasons, showcasing his leadership prowess and strategic acumen. His tenure with KKR coincided with some of the franchise’s formative years in the IPL, leaving a lasting impact on the team’s culture and performance.
Beyond his IPL exploits, Ganguly’s international career spanned over a decade, beginning with his Test debut against England in 1996. He assumed captaincy of the Indian team amidst the turbulent aftermath of the match-fixing scandal, where he played a pivotal role in revitalizing Indian cricket. Under his leadership, India achieved significant milestones, including reaching the final of the ICC Knockout Trophy in 2000 and securing historic victories against formidable opponents like Australia.
One of the most iconic moments in Ganguly’s career came in 2002 when he famously waved his shirt over his head from the Lord’s balcony after India’s remarkable triumph in the Natwest Trophy final against England. His aggressive captaincy style and unwavering commitment endeared him to millions of fans across the globe.
Despite facing setbacks, such as his controversial exclusion from the national team in 2005-06 following a rift with coach Greg Chappell, Ganguly staged a memorable comeback. He bid farewell to international cricket in 2008, leaving behind an impressive legacy of 18,575 runs in 113 Tests and 311 ODIs.
Post-retirement, Ganguly continued to contribute to the sport in various administrative roles. He served as President of the Cricket Association of Bengal and later became the President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Currently, Ganguly holds the position of Director of Cricket for the Delhi Capitals, where his strategic insights and cricketing expertise continue to shape the future of Indian cricket.
As cricket enthusiasts celebrate Sourav Ganguly’s 52nd birthday, his contributions to the game remain unmatched, symbolizing resilience, leadership, and a deep passion for cricket that transcends generations. His journey from a promising young cricketer to a revered statesman of the sport stands as a testament to his enduring impact on Indian cricket and beyond.
