Former India Skipper and BCCI President Sourav Ganguly on Saturday expressed his inability to actively participate as a cricketer for the Legends League Cricket (LLC) Benefit Match to be held on September 16 at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata.
Ganguly, who cited professional commitments, including his work as an administrator to not participate in LLC season two, will be watching the match between Indian Maharajas and Eoin Morgan-led World XI at the stadium.
In a letter addressed to the League, Ganguly wished his cricketing colleagues all the best for the benefit match as well as for the subsequent season two of the LLC. "I would like to convey my best wishes for your Legends League initiative. It's a wonderful idea of bringing retired cricketers back on the cricket field and engaging with fans across generations. I am thankful to you for offering me an opportunity to play in the one-off Legends League game at the Eden Gardens stadium in Kolkata on September 16, 2022."
"However, due to my professional commitments and continuous work with cricket administration, I will not be able to take part in this game. I am sure the fans are eagerly looking forward to this league and there will be large crowds at the stadium. The league is bringing together the stalwarts of the game and I am sure there will be exciting cricket on display. I will be there at the Eden Gardens Stadium watching the match."
Through this benefit match, the league is aiming to celebrate the 75th Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav and the entire proceeds of the match will be donated to Kapil Dev's Khushii Foundation; for supporting girl child and their education.
"We respect Sourav's decision and Legends League Cricket is here to celebrate the greatness of these cricketing greats in the best possible manner. And we are glad that Sourav even if he is not playing, will be an intrinsic part of this benefit match with his presence to cheer the Legends when they take the field for the cause on September 16, 2022," said Raman Raheja, CEO and Co-Founder, Legends League Cricket.
Cricketing greats from 10 nations will be part of this special benefit match between India Maharajas and World Giants to raise funds for the noble cause. The September 16 match will be followed by matches in Lucknow, New Delhi, Cuttack and Jodhpur. The Play-offs and finals venues are yet to be decided.