Ganguly hits out at detractors in Cricket Association of Bengal

Cricket Association on Bengal president Sourav Ganguly's differences with some of the other office-bearers came out in the open when the former India captain spoke how misinformation was being spread by a section about Eden Gardens' branding coming under the ambit of ambush marketing.

Treasurer Biswarup Dey, who has been a known detractor of Ganguly in the CAB, had raised questions about the tendering process for Eden Gardens' branding that could come under the ambit of ambush marketing.

"There was no process of tenders in CAB. Tender means an Open Tender. But in this case, it will be a restricted tender to avoid ambush marketing issues.

“I know that permission from the Army and BCCI is needed for naming rights.

"The question of ambush marketing doesn't arise. I have 20 endorsements and I know what ambush marketing is," a livid Ganguly said when asked about the issue.

"It is not for my personal benefit that I'm doing this. This is the first time in 15 years that CAB will have Rs 6 crore in their own kitty," said the former India captain.

Ganguly also told reporters that new electronic scoreboard will be installed at Eden Gardens by February 15.

"By February 15, the scoreboard will be installed by Reliance at a cost of Rs 2.5 crore, which they are bearing at my request. Let me also tell you that branding of this won't include the ICC and IPL tournaments.

"The BCCI has also asked all the state associations to give their feedback on the matter. Many associations already own the stadiums so it's not a problem for them," he said.

That he was angry with stories of him trying to push the branding of Eden Gardens came to the fore from what he spoke next.

Without taking any names, Ganguly took a dig at current office-bearers.

"It's not in my character to talk about my colleagues. If I had to say I could have said that Eden Gardens had lost the 2011 World Cup match when this person was part of CAB.

“Then Mr Dalmiya and I had run from pillar to post trying to do our bit. But I don't want to rake up these things," he added.

"It's not fair you hear just one side of the story. So I had to this. In future I would be happy if you clarify any matter with me," he said.