Sourav Ganguly Birthday Special! Being Righty to Nickname 'Maharaja', Five Interesting Facts About Dada You May Have Not Known

Former India cricket team captain Sourav Ganguly, popularly known as the "Dada" of Indian cricket, is celebrating his birthday on July 8. The "Prince of Kolkata", who successfully led the Indian cricket team to many accolades on the global stage, turns 47 on Monday. Ganguly boasts of an illustrious international career which spanned 15 years, from 1992 to 2007. During this period, he represented India in 113 Tests and 311 ODIs. With over 11,363 runs in the ODIs and 7,212 runs in Tests, the Bengal cricketer was a marvellous batsman who enthralled audiences all over the world. Sourav Ganguly Backs MS Dhoni After Sachin Tendulkar’s Criticism; Says, ‘He Will Come Back Stronger’.

Ganguly is one of the well-known cricketers among fans and people know a lot of things about him, but here are some interesting personal facts about the former left-handed batsman that many of you may have not known. Let us have a look at five such interesting facts. Sourav Ganguly Speaks on Farewell Game for Yuvraj Singh and Rainy Days in England. 

Left-handed or right-handed?

Sourav Ganguly is actually a right-handed person but he turned left-handed as he had to share his elder brother Snehasish’s sports kit in his childhood. Dada’s brother was a left-handed cricketer and to be able to play with latter’s sports equipment, Ganguly learned to play with the opposite side.

Sourav aka ‘Maharaja’!

Dada had a luxurious childhood as his father Chandidas Ganguly was a well-known rich man with a prosperous print business. The current Indian commentator had the nickname ‘Maharaja’ in his childhood days.

First Class brother!

Ganguly is not the only cricketer of his family, his brother Snehasish is also a well-known former first-class cricketer who played for Bengal Ranji cricket team. Although the elder Ganguly did not play for India, he was part of Bengal Ranji Team from 1987 to 97, featuring in 59 first-class matches.

Mom disliked Cricket!

Dada’s mother Nirupa Ganguly didn’t want his younger son to take up any sport as his profession. However, Ganguly achieved his dream of becoming a successful cricketer in his life with support from his brother and father.

Childhood Lover!  

Ganguly, who is the current president of Cricket Association of Bengal, married his childhood lover Dona Roy after eloping with her in 1997. Dona is a professional dancer. The couple has a daughter named Sana Ganguly, who was born in 2001.

Other than being a brilliant batsman, Sourav Ganguly was also a great leader, who captained India in 49 Tests and 147 ODIs. He also successfully led the Indian team to the final of World Cup 2003, which the Indian side lost to Australia by 125 runs. However, India’s stunning journey in that tournament under the guidance of Dada will always be remembered.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 07, 2019 10:26 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).