Sourav Ganguly to inaugurate his own bronze statue

Former Indian national team captain Sourav Ganguly had a distinguished career representing India, and now he will be a part of another memorable achievement. Ganguly, who was the captain of India for 49 Test matches and 147 ODIs, will inaugurate the 8-feet tall statue. The Bronze statue, which is built under the initiative taken by West Dinajpur District Sports Association (WDDSA), will find its place in front of the main gate of the Balurghat stadium.

Gautam Goswami, the secretary of WDDSA feels that Ganguly is an icon not only of the state of West Bengal but rather an inspiring character for the heights he achieved with the Indian team. It is widely acknowledged that it was the prince of Kolkata who imparted the winning habit in the team.

“We believe Sourav Ganguly is not only an icon in Bengal, he has been an inspiration to every human being for his sheer determination which finally made him victorious against all odds in Indian cricket. That is why we have decided to set up his statue at the main gate of Balurghat Stadium not only to publicise him, but we want the sports persons all over the north Bengal who will be coming to this stadium, must watch it and get inspired,” Goswami said.

Ganguly, who is currently the president of Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) after Jagmohan Dalmiya’s death, felt honoured to be inaugurating his own statue. He said “I am feeling honoured with the news. I will try my best to inaugurate the statue.”

He was not particularly ready to say that India will win Champions Trophy 2017. But he said that India surely is firm favourites to retain their title. While he may not sound that confident here, he firmly predicted that India will surely defeat arch-rivals Pakistan.

“I cannot predict whether India will be champions. But I can comment two things. One is that India will be one of the title contenders in the Champions Trophy. Secondly, India will beat Pakistan in their opening match in the tournament,” Dada said.

Later, to avoid unnecessary controversies, he clarified the reason for this kind of prediction. “In last eight to ten years the difference between two teams has been huge. Indian team has been stronger and Pakistan has not been able to match India comparing to all-round utility and strength.”