On the evening of November 9, Calcutta Club witnessed an enriching and engaging conversation between cricket commentator and journalist Ashis Ray and former Indian cricketer and Bengal captain Dilip Doshi. The occasion was the publication of a new edition of Ray’s book Cricket World Cup: The Indian Challenge. The duo engaged in a conversation that stretched from nostalgia on the cricket ground to discussing World Cup 2023.
Ashis Ray commented that his book does not merely provide reading pleasure but also presents an eyewitness testimonial as he had the privilege of being present for the matches. ”It is a ready reference and records factual information from 1975 to 2019. Moreover, the book has a new edition every four years and it is the only one in its genre to be routinely updated,” Ray added.
Theatre artiste Piali Roy who was also present at the gathering, said, “The book is a historical document and a rare assessment of the statistics and events that have actually happened. It narrates an eye-witness history, which makes it more authentic and trustworthy. The book offers a correct perspective that is much needed amid the increasing interest in cricket.”
The talk also covered the ongoing cricket World Cup. Ray mentioned, “India looks invincible and extraordinary in the World Cup this time.” Clearly rooting for the home team, Doshi added, “Cricket is unpredictable and it depends on the number of injuries being sustained, luck and several other things. The all-rounders are performing excellently from the Indian side. Although we are in a good position, nobody should take things for granted.”
The duo also interacted with the audience, which comprised cricket enthusiasts who have been following the game since the ‘70s and ‘80s. While answering a question on whether the present Indian team is the best one, the former Bengal captain declared, “The champion from any era is a true champion. While the present team is definitely highly talented, the future of cricket lies in the continuation of ODIs and Test cricket.” He added, “T20 is like fast food, one should never consume too much of it.”
Debu Mitra, who has coached cricketers Cheteshwar Pujara and Ravindra Jadeja, was also present in the audience. Mitra said, “The Indian team has all good performers. I used to make Jadeja and Pujara practise and it gives me immense pleasure to see them where they are today.” Towards the end of the session, Doshi and Ray agreed that cricket is no longer a sport and has become an industry. The evening ended with members of Calcutta Club getting their copies of Cricket World Cup: The Indian Challenge signed by Ray and Doshi.