Indian news round-up

British media flays Sourav Ganguly

Indian captain Sourav Ganguly has been criticised by the British media. A PTI report quoted that one of the newspapers described the 'Prince of Calcutta' as "a sort of an Indian Geoff Boycott." The local media have accused Ganguly of being aloof, not shouldering enough responsibility and failing to give his best when needed. This was something similar to what was written about the English commentator during his playing days.

The Sunday Times wrote "Boycott was rarely short of runs; it was just that he didn't always score them fast enough, or at the right time, to suit his team". While, Sky TV was quick to point out that when Ganguly made 50 against Kent, the cameras showed that Ganguly was greeted with an empty balcony.

The Daily Telegraph came down heavily on Ganguly for Lancashire's 98- run defeat against Gloucestershire. The daily commented that "in particular the performance of Sourav Ganguly was a disgrace. He ambled out to open the innings in blue shoes, which should bring him an immediate club fine, and he appeared not to have a care in the world as he plodded to four from 26 balls." The daily added "when he was caught at third man, aiming an appalling heave to leg, he gave every impression of wishing he was anywhere but Bristol. If that is how he approaches the overseas player's job, Lancashire should take him at his own estimation and pay him up this very day, because he is wasting his time and theirs."

IT dept. to probe unusual transactions

Income Tax (IT) authorities said they were looking into the unusual banking transactions of players, officials and bookies according to a PTI report. Sources close to the department said the bank accounts of those people whose houses and other premises were raided during "Operation Gentlemen" on July 20-21 were being probed.

The department is also seeking statements from those whose documents are being scrutinised on the deposits and withdrawals. The sources also said they were recording statements of the bookies and were waiting for former Indian captains Kapil Dev and Mohd. Azharuddin whose statements need to be recorded. Nikhil Chopra, who was expected in the first week of this month, will now return at the end of August.