For someone whose ancestors hail from India, Trinidad & Tobago skipper Daren Ganga comes across as a player who values India’s values and its vast culture.
“Our family has always been proud of our roots and the Indian tradition and values have been instilled in us, right from a young age,” said Ganga, in an exclusive chat with this newspaper. His eyes lit up when asked about the support his team has received in India. “Oh! Phenomenal. We never expected this kind of support in India, to be honest. But, it is overwhelming to see the Indian fans rooting for our team when we take the field,” the 30-year-old said.
Apart from cricket, Ganga grew up on a heavy dosage of Hindi movies. “We used to watch a lot Hindi movies on weekends and it has always been a great experience,” he said. His favourite movies include Dost, Mohabbatein, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai. When asked on why he liked these movies, “These movies bring out the nuances of Indian tradition beautifully,” was Ganga’s answer.
Ganga wants to visit various places in India but will be head home as the domestic 50-over tournament starts on October 26 in Guyana. “I really wish to stay for some more time to explore India. But we are pressed for time,” he said.
The talk shifted to the topic of the emergence of talent in the T&T team. Ganga is quick to point out names of Darren Bravo, Adrian Barath and Kieron Pollard as the ones to watch out for in the future. When asked about the influence of past players in the current crop, Ganga said, “We have all grown up watching greats such as Sir Vivian Richards, Curtly Ambrose and Courtney Walsh and it is natural for anyone to get influenced. But, its not intentional.”
Ganga is visibly excited to have his family in Hyderabad. “My parents are here and they will be watching me play on Thursday. To me, this is a great moment of personal joy to have my parents sit watching me and Sherwin play. If we win the tournament, that will be the gift I would like to give my parents and to the West Indian cricket,” he said.
Come Thursday, the Ganga family which includes father Bahadur Ramesh Ganga and mother Seerajie Jenno Ganga will be in attendance at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium as the Gangas will start off with a ‘home’ advantage.
Home away from home for Daren Ganga
by prasad on October 22, 2009
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