Happy birthday, Dada: Wishes pour in for ‘Prince of Kolkata’
“God of offside”, “Prince of Kolkata”, aggressive captain and history maker – Sourav Ganguly took over a troubled Indian cricket team and turned his players into a bunch match-winners. His elegant strokeplay and aggressive captaincy were some of his greatest gifts to modern-day cricket. Under Ganguly’s astute leadership, India found the wings they needed to soar above the skies of success. His contribution towards making India a potent force in overseas conditions will forever be cherished by generations to follow.
As the former captain celebrates his 47th birthday in the middle of India’s quest for their third World Cup title, wishes poured in from former teammates, friends and fans on social media.
Special memories call for special pictures. Here’s Sachin Tendulkar sharing a rare picture from the archives.
Happy Birthday Dadi! From playing with you in our Under-15 days to now commentating with you. It’s been quite a journey. Have a great year ahead! pic.twitter.com/Ijnder6RJN
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) July 8, 2019
Even Twitter India can’t forget his iconic, headline-worthy act from the balcony at Lord’s.
You think of the Lord’s Cricket Ground, and that makes you think of #SouravGanguly. #HappyBirthdayDadahttps://t.co/hg28UxTssE
— Twitter Moments India (@MomentsIndia) July 8, 2019
Of course, Virender Sehwag will always come up with his own, unique ways of wishing his teammates.
Happy Birthday to a 56” Captain , Dada @SGanguly99 !
56 inch chest,
8th day of the 7th month, 8*7 = 56 and a World Cup average of 56. #HappyBirthdayDada , May God Bless You ! pic.twitter.com/Dcgj9jrEUE— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) July 8, 2019
Mohammad Kaif doesn’t look too pleased with Ganguly coming at him with full force.
Happy Birthday to a man who brought about a fantastic transition in Indian cricket, a brilliant leader who backed guys he believed in to the fullest . But aise kaun chadhta hai , Dada @SGanguly99 #HappyBirthdayDada pic.twitter.com/tuOwPejGm1
— Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) July 8, 2019
Nobody messes with Dada!
The rise of Indian cricket team from ashes was because of an aggressive leader who showed the world not to mess with his team thank you Dada ??… wish you a very happy birthday @SGanguly99 sir #HappyBirthdayDada pic.twitter.com/mmBWin5cDj
— Sai Dharam Tej (@IamSaiDharamTej) July 8, 2019