Former India Captain Sourav Ganguly Receives Death Threats, Files Police Complaint
In a shocking turn of events, former India cricket team captain Sourav Ganguly has revealed that he and his family have been receiving death threats for the past six months. The 54-year-old cricketer, who is also the President of the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB), broke his silence on the matter on Friday, stating that a police complaint has been filed at the Thakurpukur Police Station in Kolkata.
Ganguly Speaks Out on Death Threats
Ganguly, who is one of India’s most celebrated cricketers and captains, expressed confidence that the authorities will take necessary action to address the situation. Speaking on the sidelines of the inauguration of a store at Acropolis Mall in Kolkata, Ganguly said, “We have reported it to the police. I am sure the police will sort it out. The number is from here (Kolkata). Hopefully, the police will do the needful. I have security.”
The former BCCI President revealed that the threatening messages had been brought to the attention of the police, and a formal complaint was lodged earlier this week. According to the police complaint, Ganguly and his family have reportedly been receiving threatening letters for around six months. The matter was taken more seriously after two letters allegedly used words such as “eliminate” and “finish”. The family had initially viewed the messages as notes from overzealous fans, but the repeated threats and increasingly aggressive language prompted them to approach the police.
A Look at Ganguly’s Illustrious Career
Ganguly’s illustrious career spans over two decades, during which he represented India in 113 Tests and 311 ODIs, scoring 18,575 international runs across formats. He scored 7,212 runs in Tests at an average of 42.17, including 16 centuries and 35 half-centuries, while his ODI tally stood at 11,363 runs at an average of 41.02, with 22 centuries and 72 half-centuries.
As captain, Ganguly played a key role in shaping a competitive Indian team in the early 2000s. He led India to the 2003 ODI World Cup final and also guided the side to a historic Test series victory in Pakistan in 2004. Ganguly’s memorable international career also included his famous shirt-waving celebration at Lord’s after India defeated England in the 2002 NatWest Trophy final.
A Career of Many Firsts
Ganguly’s career was marked by many firsts, including being the first Indian to score a century on debut in Test cricket. He was also the first Indian captain to lead the team to a Test series victory in Pakistan. Ganguly’s leadership skills and batting prowess earned him a place in the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame last month, a testament to his contribution to the sport.
A Concerning Situation
The death threats received by Ganguly and his family are a concerning situation, and the police are taking the matter seriously. The police complaint has been filed, and an investigation is underway. The incident highlights the need for increased security measures for public figures, including cricketers and their families.
As the investigation unfolds, the cricketing community is rallying behind Ganguly and his family, offering their support and solidarity. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining a safe and secure environment for all individuals, including those who have made significant contributions to the sport.
A Call for Action
The incident highlights the need for a more robust security infrastructure for public figures, including cricketers and their families. The police and other authorities must take necessary measures to ensure the safety and security of those who have made significant contributions to the sport.
As the investigation unfolds, the cricketing community will be watching closely, hoping for a swift and satisfactory resolution to the situation. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining a safe and secure environment for all individuals, including those who have made significant contributions to the sport.