Ganguly honoured after being recognised the best

Indian cricketer Sourav Ganguly was recently awarded the Castrol Asian Cricketer of the Year award at a ceremony in Karachi in Pakistan. Ganguly also won best overall batsman after becoming the highest Asian run-getter in Tests in 2007 with 1,106 runs, including a career-best 239 not out against Pakistan. He also smashed 1,240 runs in one-day internationals. Unfortunately the batsman was unable to attend the ceremony after visiting his ill father in London, but still found time to speak to Gulf News about his achievements.

Gulf News: How does it feel to be recognised as the best Asian cricketer of the last season?

Sourav Ganguly: It is a great honour for me. Especially, at this point of my career, I think this award will definitely motivate me.

When did you find out about it?

One day earlier, when they were inquiring whether I would be eager to provide them the reaction for winning the prestigious award. My dad's hospital is close to Lord's, so, I told them to organise the camera for the video interview. It would have been great to be physically present in Karachi to receive the award but I am here with my dad and he is undergoing treatment. So, it was impossible for me to go to Karachi.

Lord's again, you seem to have an affinity with the place?

Ha ha! Yes, again at Lord's. I do not know, but somehow Lord's comes back to me or I go back to Lord's. When they said that they need to talk to me somewhere in London, we thought Lord's was the best place.

What was your reaction when you found that your name was among the nominees?

I was overjoyed. Great news. When I got the confirmation from the organisers that they had chosen me, I was really happy. And I sincerely believe that when my dad gets the news, he will feel better.

Last season no other batsman in the world had made more runs than you. How does that make you feel?

Starting from the 2006 tour of South Africa I worked really hard. This is the reward for the rigorous training during those 15 or 16 months. When the effort is recognised by such a prestigious award, it inspires you to achieve more.

Which do you think was your best innings during that time?

Well, for me it was the 91 at Bangalore against Pakistan. In the first innings I got a double hundred - my first in Test matches - but during the second innings, the wicket was completely broken. Batting was really difficult on it. It was an unplayable wicket which leads me to label that one as the best.

Is it the biggest award for you in recent times?

I do not know what you mean by recent times, but the last year went like a dream for me. Yes, I was adjudged the best cricketer of the world in 2000 which was also a very satisfying moment.

Wisden also acknowledged your efforts in the 2008 edition. How did that feel?

Yeah, I have seen it too. It's okay with me. And when somebody praises your efforts it always feel good.