A call he was expecting

By Our Sports Reporter

HYDERABAD, SEPT. 8. For Deep Dasgupta, the wicketkeeper-batsman for the Indian team's forthcoming South African tour, Friday was the most memorable day of his career. ``It was a pleasant feeling to be in the Indian team. I don't say I was surprised for I was really expecting it ever since I was in the Indian camp before the Zimbabwe tour,'' he said.

The stumper from Bengal, who was informed about the selection from his father Mr. B. Dasgupta, says the turning point of his career was the Duleep Trophy last season. ``Somehow, I was very confident in that tournament. And that 30-plus knock against South Zone was the best innings I played in recent times,'' Deep Dasgupta said. ``For, I was up against the best attack comprising India stars, and on a very bad wicket. It gave me lot of confidence,'' he told The Hindu.

Dasgupta is basically a wicketkeeper-batsman. And not a batsman who can also keep wickets. ``I made my debut as stumper for Bengal and was an understudy to Saba Karim. I always enjoyed the job. I don't say that Saba was my role model but he always helped me out in small things which might have made me a better wicketkeeper than what I was at the beginning.''

Having played just four Duleep Trophy and four Ranji matches in three seasons, he had made it to the national squad. What was Saurav Ganguly's influence on him? ``Well, he is the superstar from the East Zone and one of the most sought after cricketers. So naturally everyone looks upto him,'' he said. ``Personally, I played under him in a couple of matches. I don't say that he is a demanding captain, but an inspirational leader. But, he expects the players to perform to their potential. And when you don't do that then he will definitely talk to the player,' Deep Dasgupta explained.

SOUTH AFRICA CALLING: A delighted Deep Dasgupta receives congratulatory messages at the lobby of his hotel in Hyderabad, where he is playing in the Moin- ud-Dowla tournament.

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