With an eye on Ranji Trophy crown, Bengal head coach Laxmi Ratan Shukla and skipper Manoj Tiwary are leaving no stone unturned to be ready for a colossal challenge against Saurashtra.
Bengal, who last won the Ranji title back in 1989-90 season, will face Saurashtra in the summit clash to take place at the Eden starting on Thursday.
“We are not thinking too far ahead. Obviously our aim is to become Ranji champions but we will take one day at a time. Our preparations have been fantastic. We want to get off to a good start on Day 1 and take it from there,” LR Shukla said on Tuesday.
It will once again be a repeat of the 2019-20 title decider, and Bengal will aim for revenge at home after being beaten by Saurashtra back then.
“Manoj is leading from the front superbly. I want my boys to stay grounded as we haven’t yet won the big prize. Saurashtra are a quality side and we will give our best on the day to beat them in all departments. The pitch looks like a sporting one with help for both bowlers and batsmen,” the coach added.
It will be a fitting farewell for skipper Manni if Bengal can put their hands on the prestigious trophy. The veteran batsman earlier in the season said he would like to call it quits after guiding team to Ranji triumph.
“All the players are looking fit and fine. Batting, bowling and fielding all departments are covered. Now it’s about executing out plans on the field. Our pace attack are in fine form so are the batters,” Manoj said.
“Just we need to keep things simple and apply ourselves. Becoming Ranji champions is our dream and aim and we will give our all to reach the goal. Saurashtra are a good side but the Eden pitch will surely test them,” the captain signed off.
Source- CAB Media
Report- Pratyusha Mukherjee
