CAB concerned after Bengal's poor show

Kolkata, Dec 10 (UNI) The Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) is ploughing deep furrows of concern after Bengal was shot out for 124 in their second innings, even as National Selector (East) Ranjib Biswal continues to be indifferent to the home prospects.

The Ranji Trophy tie between Bengal and Orissa proved to be a nightmare for the batsmen as they were left beleaguered by the Orissa bowlers. While Bengal were shot out for 107 in their first innings, with captain Laxmi Ratan Shukla (36) and Manoj Tiwary (17), the second innings withered for 124 with only Arindam Das registering the highest 47.

Orissa now needs 51 runs to win with seven wickets intact.

Talking to UNI, CAB secretary Samar Pal said, ''It is a definite worry if our batsmen cannot put up a decent score in two consecutive innings. We have taken note of it.'' Asked if the green-top worked against them, he said, ''Why should it work against them? We have a good pace attack and hence kept the wicket a tinge on the greener side. But it does not mean that the team has to collapse in this manner.'' Asked about Mr Biswal's indifference toward the players from Bengal, he said, ''We talked to Dilip Vengsarkar and got Mr Biswal here. What can we do other than that.'' ''We are taking up the topic at the correct forum and hope to find a way out,'' he added.

Manoj Tiwari and Ranadeb Bose have been in the fringe for sometime, though not being able to break into the playing eleven.

UNI