Shatrunjoy Gaekwad at the Eden on Wednesday. Picture by Santosh Ghsoh

Calcutta: Shatrunjoy Gaekwad will be ‘missing’ Sourav Ganguly when Baroda take on Bengal in the Ranji Trophy semi-final from Friday.

The son of ex-India opener and coach Aunshuman, Shatrunjoy is a big fan of the former Team India captain. “I am a left-handed batsman and his (Sourav’s) exquisite drives through the off-side are a treat to watch. He is a role model for any left-hander,” said Shatrunjoy, who is in the Baroda XV for the first time this season.

Two years ago, the left-handed middle order batsman got two precious gifts which he still cherishes: one of Sourav’s bats with which he made his Ranji debut and a pair of gloves. Shatrunjoy is not carrying that bat on this trip as he uses a lighter willow now.

“When my father (Anshuman) took over as Team India coach in 1997, it became easy for me to interact with Sourav frequently. His tips benefited me a lot. I was hoping to meet him on this visit?

“As a fan, of course, I am happy to see him back in the side and hopefully he will play a big knock in the next Test,” added Shatrumjoy.

The Baroda squad has another high-profile name ? Yusuf Pathan, the elder brother of Irfan. And he has no doubts that life has changed a lot following Irfan’s exploits for Team India.

“We have moved to a big house in Baroda and there is this recognition of being the brother of a young cricket star. I don’t have a problem in being known as the brother of Irfan Pathan,” admitted Yusuf.

“There is a competition between us but it is only restricted to the field. When we are bowling to each other in the nets, it is a challenge for both which we really relish,” added Yusuf.