A Tribute to the catalyst of Indian Cricket Sourav Ganguly

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Champions Trophy 2000 and 2002

Sourav Ganguly led India to Champions Trophy success in 2002, although it was a shared one between India and Sri Lanka. It was the first of his major tournaments he achieved. Sourav Ganguly again proved he is a big tournament player with his batting exploits in the Champions Trophy. He has a very good record as a captain and as a batsman in Champions Trophy.

Most runs in ICC Champions Trophy

791 Gayle

742 Jayawardene

701 Dhawan

683 Sangakkara

665 Ganguly

Highest Scores in ICC Champions Trophy

145* Astle

145 Andy Flower

141* Ganguly

141 Tendulkar

141 Smith

136* Watson

Highest Batting Average in ICC Champions Trophy

88.16 Kohli

77.88 Dhawan

73.88 Ganguly

61.50 Martyn

53.44 Rohit

Most runs in a single edition of ICC Champions Trophy

474 Gayle

363 Dhawan

348 Ganguly

338 Dhawan

320 Tharanga

304 Rohit Sharma

Highest Partnership by runs

252* Watson, Ponting

224 Shakib,Mahmudullah

206 Shoaib Malik, Mohammed Yusuf

192 Sehwag,Ganguly

192 Gayle, Hinds

Sourav Ganguly would always be regarded as one of the best captains in Indian cricket. When it comes to winning overseas he is still the real deal. Apart from that, he showed courage and determination to take the Indian team forward when it was in serious crisis. He came like a Godfather and constructed an empire that is so strong in its foundations. Like in the case of buildings, when the foundation is strong it would stand strong One would also have to appreciate his never say never approach which led him to comeback into the side when he was dropped. It is all about making a statement and being among the best as far as Sourav Ganguly is concerned. He always believed in a trustee and beneficiary relationship with his players. He showed the trust in his team and the players, which has brought some incredible rewards. When selectors wanted Dinesh Karthik in the side he was the one who suggested Dhoni’s name. The rest is history as we all know.  Dhoni went on to be one of the most celebrated players in cricket history.

Sourav Ganguly will always be there in the minds of every Indian cricket fan of the 90s whatsoever. He has left a lasting impression in his time as a player, as a captain and as a batsman. He has a special place in the annals of Indian cricket history. He is the Godfather. He is the God of Offside. He is the Prince of Bengal.