Ganguly given Z-category security

Saurav Ganguly's return to Kolkata on Monday was different from what it had been in the past. Ganguly usually returns to the city quietly and without fuss with only an escort jeep accompanying him on his way from the airport to his home in Behala. Monday was different. He was given the Z-category security treatment as he stepped out from the plane on to the tarmac. There were plain clothes policemen shadowing his every move. They had to be on their toes as the militant group called Lashkar-Ei-Toiba has threatened to kidnap the Indian captain.

All along the route from the airport to the Ganguly residence, there were two cars packed with black cat personnel accompanying Ganguly. At home also there were carbine-totting security men. A high level police officer said on Tuesday, "We have decided to give Ganguly the Z- category security cover. We are doing so because we have instructions to do so. Other than that I am not in a position to divulge anything."

Ganguly's father Chandi however, said that the security cover has been provided because of the threat. "The militant group has threatened to kidnap both Sourav and Sachin Tendulkar. So the Central Government has provided them with protection." He also informed that it was a new experience for the entire family. "We have never known what security is all about. Now we are also realizing the disadvantages of such arrangements. But we have to accept it. After all, the warnings of the militant groups cannot be taken lightly." In fact at the Ganguly residence, three security personnel with stenguns are constantly guarding the balcony that leads to the drawing room and bed room of the Indian captain.

Meanwhile, the captain himself felt that the loss of Sachin Tendulkar for a major part of the one-day triangular series in Sri Lanka would be a great blow. "However, we have to overcome it. Sachin has rarely missed a match, such is his commitment to the side. So his absence will be felt. But then I am confident that the juniors will perform their duties," he said today. Talking about his own form, Ganguly said that his bad patch was probably over. "I have started scoring runs. In the last few innings that I have played, I have got two scores over fifty. I hope that I will be able to regain my form fully in Sri Lanka."

The Indian captain also added that his performance in the past had raised the expectations of the people. "But then I cannot always score centuries." Talking about his new opening partner, Amay Khurasia, the Indian captain said, "He has scored a lot of runs and has the ability to make full use of the first 15 overs. I am confident that he will do well."