NEW DELHI: Sourav Ganguly, as Republic of India captain, was once at the leading edge when he led the staff to Pakistan right through the ancient excursion in 2004. At the eve of the sport towards Pakistan in Ahmedabad, TOI stuck up with Ganguly for a talk.
Excerpts…
What’s the very first thing that crosses your thoughts about taking part in a sport towards Pakistan?
I’ve many fond recollections of taking part in Pakistan, like my fits towards them in Toronto. Like moving to Pakistan and beating Pakistan, or the World Cup wins towards them in 1999 and 2003. Those are particular moments. However the Pakistan excursion was once other. First presen in 50 years, Republic of India beat Pakistan in Pakistan. International Cup was once only one sport, that excursion was once an extended one, and we had been handled rather well.
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What was once it like sharing the garden with them?
I had fond recollections of taking part in towards Inzamam, Saqlain, Mushtaq Ahmed, Mohammed Yusuf and Younis Khan. Truly loved taking part in cricket with them. They had been an excellent staff at that presen. They had been a greater facet than what they’re now. That they had a admirable bowling assault with Wasim and Waqar. Waqar was once in truth really nice to play games towards.
As captain, how did you maintain the travel to Pakistan given the diplomatic tensions?
I handled it as some other sport. I by no means checked out Pakistan as a special staff and simply performed cricket. On the finish of the time, it’s nonetheless the cricket ball and bat. Groups are old to backlash. From that perspective that’s phase and parcel {of professional} game. You need to discover ways to do business in with the entire negativity going round and nonetheless carry out.
What’s your recommendation to Republic of India for this sport?
I might advise Republic of India to play games one sport at a presen. Republic of India have seemed grand and really robust. Optimistically, it continues. International Cups are lengthy. There are seven extra video games and nearest the semifinals. So, it’s important to have the option to secure on on your mode for an extended duration of presen.
Do you favor the similar taking part in XI during the match?
In case you carry out it turns into a settled XI, which is the case on the era. One peculiar alternate will occur this or that means, whether or not it’s Ashwin or a quick bowler.
How tricky is it to bench a senior spinner like Ashwin? You needed to stock Anil Kumble out in 2003?
I don’t see it as a disorder. I’m satisfied that Ashwin is within the facet.
