VVS Laxman appointed batting consultant of Bengal

File Photo: VVS Laxman (L), Bengal’s new batting consultant with Sourav Ganguly

Former Indian international VVS Laxman has been named batting consultant for Bengal domestic side. The announcement was made by the Cricket Association of Bengal, in which Laxman’s longtime teammate Sourav Ganguly is the joint secretary.

"Over the period of next year, I'll be coming here for at least 30 days. We'll work out what's best for myself as well as the youngsters," Laxman told reporters at the Eden Gardens. "The ultimate aim for a batsman is to score runs. Run making is also a technique along with the skill. I'm looking forward to contribute," he added.

The wristy Hyderbadi player revealed that his former captain convinced him to join Bengal. "It's because of him that I'm here. He persuaded me to take up this role. Really excited to see the young talents on display," he said.

Speaking on the appointment, Ganguly said, "He's here for the Vision 2020 not for the senior (Ranji) side. Ashok Malhotra is there for the senior team. Everybody who's there with the senior team are also associated with Vision 2020. Laxman is for the development of players of Bengal."

Notably, Muttiah Muralitharan and Waqar Younis were named as the spin and pace bowling consultants for a three-year term earlier this year. With the a bunch of stalwarts on board, it is clear that the ‘Bengal Tiger’ is trying everything he could to produce more international cricketers from the state.