Sourav Ganguly Biography: Life Story, Career, Records, Family & Achievements
Introduction
Sourav Chandidas Ganguly, fondly known as “Dada” and the “Prince of Kolkata”, is one of India’s greatest cricketers and most influential captains. Known for his aggressive leadership, fearless batting, and ability to nurture young talent, Ganguly transformed Indian cricket into a dominant force in the early 2000s. Beyond cricket, he has been a successful administrator, serving as the President of the BCCI (2019–2022).
Personal Information
- Full Name: Sourav Chandidas Ganguly
- Date of Birth: 8 July 1972
- Birthplace: Kolkata, West Bengal, India
- Nationality: Indian
- Zodiac Sign: Cancer
Physical Appearance
- Height: 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm)
- Weight: Approx. 74 kg
- Hair Color: Black
- Eye Color: Dark Brown
Early Life & Family Background
Sourav Ganguly was born into an affluent family in Kolkata. His father, Chandidas Ganguly, was a wealthy businessman. Initially encouraged to pursue football, he later switched to cricket, thanks to his elder brother Snehasish Ganguly, a first-class cricketer. His elegant left-handed batting style developed early, and he soon became a standout player in Bengal cricket.
International Career
Debut Matches
- ODI Debut: 11 January 1992 vs West Indies.
- Test Debut: 20 June 1996 vs England at Lord’s – scored a century (131).
Career Highlights
- Tests: 7,212 runs in 113 matches at an average of 42.17 with 16 centuries.
- ODIs: 11,363 runs in 311 matches at an average of 41.02 with 22 centuries.
- Iconic opening partnership with Sachin Tendulkar in ODIs (over 6,600 runs together).
- Known for aggressive stroke play, especially through the off-side (“God of the Off-Side”).
- Captained India in 49 Tests and 146 ODIs, instilling self-belief and a fighting spirit.
Captaincy & Leadership
- Took over as captain in 2000 after the match-fixing scandal, rebuilding the team’s morale.
- Backed youngsters like Yuvraj Singh, Harbhajan Singh, Virender Sehwag, and Zaheer Khan, who later became match-winners.
- Led India to the 2002 NatWest Trophy win at Lord’s, remembered for his shirt-waving celebration on the balcony.
- Captained India to the 2003 World Cup final.
IPL & Domestic Career
- Represented Kolkata Knight Riders and Pune Warriors India in IPL.
- Continued contributing to Bengal cricket after retiring from internationals.
Administration Career
- Served as President of the Cricket Association of Bengal (2015–2019).
- Became the 39th President of the BCCI (2019–2022).
- Worked on cricket reforms and India’s rise in global cricket administration.
Records & Achievements
- Only cricketer to win 4 consecutive Man of the Match awards in ODIs.
- Second-highest ODI run-scorer for India at the time of his retirement.
- Scored 22 ODI centuries, second only to Sachin Tendulkar among Indians then.
- Padma Shri (2004) awardee.
- Wisden Cricketer of the Year (1997).
Personal Life
Sourav Ganguly married Dona Roy in 1997. They have a daughter, Sana Ganguly.
Legacy
Sourav Ganguly is hailed as the architect of modern Indian cricket, who gave the team confidence to win overseas and challenged rivals fearlessly. His aggressive brand of leadership changed India’s image from underdogs to world-beaters. As a player, captain, and administrator, his impact on Indian cricket is immeasurable.
FAQs
Q1: Why is Sourav Ganguly called “Dada”?
“Dada” means elder brother in Bengali. Fans and teammates affectionately use it as a sign of respect.
Q2: How many runs did Ganguly score in international cricket?
He scored over 18,500 runs across formats (Tests and ODIs).
Q3: Did Sourav Ganguly score a century on debut?
Yes, he scored 131 at Lord’s (1996 Test debut).
Q4: Was Ganguly successful as captain?
Yes, he is regarded as one of India’s most successful captains, winning overseas Tests and leading India to the 2003 World Cup final.
Q5: What did Ganguly do after retirement?
He became a cricket administrator, serving as BCCI President (2019–2022).
