VVS Laxman appointed batting consultant for Bengal side

Indian batting legend VVS Laxman has been named batting consultant for the Bengal domestic team. The announcement was made by the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB).

"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.

Laxman revealed that it was Sourav Ganguly who persuaded him to take up the job. "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. Ganguly is the joint secretary of the CAB.

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."

Muttiah Muralitharan and Waqar Younis were named as the spin and pace bowling consultants for a three-year period earlier this year.