Persistent Discipline.. finally..

The prestigious Ranji Trophy finals are on, and its pretty much evident that the star studded team of M'bai despite its initial hiccups in the competition would once again take away the honors. But for me, its Bengal who have been a real revelation in the way that they have played the game. Without any big stars, barring Ganguly, they have been an inspirational side consisting of young blokes (especially in their middle order) who have really belted and toyed with the opposition. I'll write 'bout it later, but for now, its one man who's spearheaded their bowling attack. Ranadeb Bose, 27, who's taken 57 wickets this season at an astounding avg of 14 odd has been a nemisis for all sides including M'bai. Read more 'bout him in this article by Cricinfo.

Accuracy and discipline are his main weapons; he has taken 194 first-class wickets without having bowled a single no-ball. He corrects you, not in an official game: first class, club et al. Ten thousand seven hundred and eight balls without overstepping even once. This in a country and a time when coaches keep stumps to mark the crease at the nets to ensure bowlers do not bowl no-balls!

P.S: What the heck, this guy isn't even in the list of 30 probables for the WC ! In a championship which has historically been a demonstration of batting records on benign turfs, a performance of this scale is nothin' short of being exemplary. I am no Bengal supporter, but then I hope the self glorified folks(read BCCI) stop makin' a mockery of an already screwed up domestic championship..