Manoj Tiwary feels it would be some kind of a relief for him if he doesn’t have to captain Bengal from next season. He would be able to play more shots and with an extra bit of freedom.

Talking to reporters after the CAB Senior Knockout tournament final at Eden Gardens on Thursday, Manoj said: “I’m not thinking much about captaincy, honestly.

“I have tried to do well for the team and given my best. Even when I haven’t been fully fit or indisposed, I played and tried to give my level best for the team. Those who are running the association have some expectations, and if they feel I should be continued with as captain, I’ll continue.

“If the association feels otherwise, nothing can be done. As a professional and as a batsman, I’ll take it as a relief for me in one way. If others are ready and the association does think that somebody else is ready, I am okay with it.”

Manoj added: “See, I’ll be able to play more shots (if removed from captaincy)... Because of captaincy, on several occasions, I have had to play according to the situation. So, that baggage will be removed and yeah, I can play more freely.

“Maybe you can see more aggressive knocks from me in future. As a captain when you are out to bat, you have a lot of responsibilities on your shoulders. You can’t play a loose shot and get out.

“Now, I can also play lot more shots, but I have that sense of responsibility as well.”

The CAB officials, it was learnt, will be having a meeting soon regarding the coaching staff of the Bengal senior team. According to a source, discussions will be on appointment of a coach. Arun Lal is set to continue only as mentor, while the aspect of captaincy too could be raised.

Representing Mohun Bagan in the senior knockout final, Manoj hit a 59-ball 61 as his team beat Kalighat Club by 99 runs. Debabrata Das hit an unbeaten 78 and Vivek Singh scored 76 as Bagan finished at 346/6 in 50 overs.

In reply, Kalighat were all out for 247 in 41.3 overs. Abhimanyu Easwaran top-scored with 87 off 82 balls.