Sourav Ganguly Will be Next CAB President: Mamata Banerjee

Sourav Ganguly met Mamata Banerjee on Thursday, after which the decision to make the former captain the president of the Cricket Association of Bengal was finalised.

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Sourav Ganguly will succeed late Jagmohan Dalmiya as the president of Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB). This was announced by state chief minister Mamata Banerjee in Kolkata on Thursday evening. “In this crisis period, someone has to take Dalmiya’s legacy forward. I feel Sourav is the right man,” the Trinamool chief said.

Former India captain Ganguly is currently the joint-secretary of CAB. He has served in this role for 14 months. “Ganguly will decide the association’s line-up now,” said Banerjee, who added that Dalmiya’s son Abhishek will also be part of the plans.

“I have worked with the CAB officials for 14 months and everything is a challenge. We will speak to all the 121 members and discuss the way forward. I will do whatever I can. Very happy that Dalmiya’s son will also be part of CAB. It’s a big hole to fill,” said Ganguly.

Current CAB treasurer Biswarup Dey, who was seen as a presidential candidate, said: “It is an emotional moment for us. It is not even three days that Mr Dalmiya has died and to find a solution is a good way forward.”

The West Bengal chief minister added: “Sourav has been an Indian cricket team captain, now let him lead Bengal cricket. Make no mistake that I am making a decision for CAB, it is my way of supporting cricket, which is not my cup of tea.”

Abhishek Dalmiya’s inclusion is a surprise of sorts. He had been looking after his ailing father’s day-to-day affairs and should have some idea about CAB’s administrative affairs.