As Bengal gears up for the upcoming Ranji Trophy, the selection committee is facing a crucial decision on who will lead the team in the first two matches against Andhra and Uttar Pradesh. The Bengal squad is set to be finalized on Friday, marking the beginning of Bengal’s campaign in Visakhapatnam on January 5.
Sources reveal to Telegraph India that a tug-of-war between the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) and the Bengal team management over the captaincy.
CAB is inclined towards Manoj Tiwary, the seasoned 38-year-old cricketer, in acknowledgment of his significant contributions to Bengal cricket. However, the team management is favoring the young and dynamic Sudip Gharami, 24, who successfully captained the side in both the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Trophy and the Vijay Hazare Trophy.
The ongoing debate might result in a compromise where Manoj Tiwary leads the team in the initial matches, with Gharami taking over subsequently. Nevertheless, the final decision is expected to be reached during the crucial meeting on Friday.
A CAB insider emphasized the importance of Tiwary’s experience, citing it as a valuable asset in the challenging Ranji Trophy. Under Tiwary’s leadership, Bengal reached the runners-up position in the last season’s Ranji.
Shahbaz Ahmed out of Bengal Squad?
Adding to the team’s challenges, spinner all-rounder Shahbaz Ahmed has suffered a knee injury.
Currently undergoing recovery at the National Cricket Academy in Bangalore, Shahbaz Ahmed may miss the first four games, posing a setback for Bengal in the upcoming season.
The team will have to navigate tougher times with Shahbaz’s absence, and the leadership dilemma adds an extra layer of complexity as they aim for a successful Ranji campaign.
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