Sourav Ganguly named next Cricket Association of Bengal president

Former Indian cricket team captain Sourav Ganguly was on Thursday named the next president of Cricket Association of Bengal by chief minister Mamata Banerjee.

Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly was on Thursday named the next president of Cricket Association of Bengal, ending the suspense on who will head the state cricket body following the death of Jagmohan Dalmiya.

The announcement was made by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee after a meeting with CAB officials.(HT File Photo)

The announcement was made by West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee in presence of senior CAB officials and state government ministers at the state secretariat building.

Stay tuned with breaking news on HT Channel on Facebook. Join Now

“We have unanimously decided that Sourav will fill the vacant post. Jagmohan Dalmiya’s son Avishek will be inducted in the CAB panel,” Banerjee said.

Avishek was inducted as one of the two joint secretaries replacing the current incumbent Ganguly. Subir Ganguly will continue as the other joint secretary while Biswarup Dey will continue as treasurer.

“We are going through a big crisis after his (Dalmiya) unfortunate death. Someone has to head CAB. Dalmiya loved cricket so much. So it’s important that the people close to him (should run the show)... cricket family is most important. My only request to all of you that be together, remain united and take Jaguda’s legacy forward,” CM Banerjee said with interim sports minister Arup Biswas by her side.

Ganguly told reporters the chief minister made the decision after talking to members of the board.

“I am happy. If 117 members of CAB want it, I shall bear the responsibility,” he said.

Both he and CM Banerjee denied there was any interference in the CAB’s decision.

“It’s not fair for me to interfere. I just want them to do well, I’m there with them like a deputy or colleague. It’s what they have decided together,” Banerjee said.

The announcement came a day after Ganguly and Avishek met Mamata Banerjee at the state secretariat and held an hour-long meeting.