Kolkata, 23 June – Former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly, who scored 38 international centuries during his illustrious career, has expressed deep regret over missing out on several opportunities to add more centuries to his tally. Despite accumulating an impressive 18,575 runs across 113 Tests and 311 One Day Internationals, Ganguly feels his inability to convert many promising innings into three-figure scores remains one of his biggest disappointments.
As per agency report, Ganguly’s reflection came during an interview when he was asked what advice he would give to his younger self. In response, the left-handed batsman admitted he should have scored more runs and converted more of his 80s and 90s into centuries. Statistically, Ganguly fell between the 80 to 99-run mark as many as 30 times in his career. Had those innings been converted, he could have ended with over 50 centuries to his name.
Ganguly also revealed that when he is alone at home, particularly when his wife is away in London, he often re-watches videos of his old innings on YouTube. Watching those clips reminds him of how close he came to scoring more centuries, with several dismissals occurring just short of the milestone. Though he admits he can no longer change the past, the memories still linger.
Throughout his career, Ganguly notched up 72 half-centuries in ODIs and 35 in Tests. As a captain, he also had to make several tough calls, including team selections. One such decision he continues to regret is dropping legendary leg-spinner Anil Kumble on certain occasions, despite acknowledging Kumble’s brilliance as a player.
Discussing rivalries and personal challenges, Ganguly named Australia as his favorite team to compete against, citing the intensity and competitiveness of those matches. Among bowlers, he considered Australian pace legend Glenn McGrath as the most dangerous he faced during his career.
Ganguly’s reflections underline the fine margins in professional sport and the emotional weight of missed milestones, even for players who have achieved greatness. His candid admission offers a rare glimpse into the internal thoughts of one of India’s most iconic cricketers.
