Sourav Ganguly set to return as CAB president, likely unopposed

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly is set to return as president of the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB), a post he previously held from mid-2015 to October 2019. On Tuesday evening, shortly after the CAB’s apex body meeting at Eden Gardens, Ganguly confirmed to reporters that he would be filing his nomination for the presidential post.

According to senior officials within the association, the 52-year-old is likely to be elected unopposed. “Given the situation, that’s what will happen most likely,” a CAB official said. Ganguly, who served as Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president between 2019 and 2022, will return to familiar territory, though the challenges before him are significant.

Topping the list is the need to address allegations of corruption within the association and in club cricket. Recent charges of embezzlement against two senior office-bearers and a committee member have raised concerns over governance. Ganguly’s stature, insiders believe, will be critical in restoring the association’s image and enforcing accountability.

Another priority will be the successful hosting of the India–South Africa Test at Eden Gardens from November 14, as well as the T20 World Cup fixtures the venue will stage. While no major overhaul of the stadium is planned before the global tournament, some fine-tuning is expected. Ganguly will also aim to secure a semi-final and a marquee India match for the venue.

Beyond marquee events, investment in infrastructure and player welfare will be central to his tenure. Senior Bengal batter Anustup Majumdar has recently called for improvements in basic facilities. Ganguly is expected to push for the development of an additional ground or pitch for year-round practice, along with an upgrade of the Bengal Cricket Academy in Kalyani, whose inadequate facilities contributed to Bengal dropping crucial Ranji Trophy points against Bihar.

The former skipper is also expected to assemble a trusted team of administrators. Those likely to work closely with him include current tours and fixtures committee chairman Sanjoy Das, former apex body member Subrata Saha, current umpires’ committee chairman Prasenjit Banerjee, and former joint-secretary Bablu Koley.

If elected, Ganguly’s return to CAB will mark the resumption of a leadership role he knows well — one where his administrative acumen and on-field legacy will be tested in equal measure.