Sourav Ganguly

Columnist Sourav Ganguly is turning commentator too. A fortnight ago, the former India captain made his debut as a print media expert in the ongoing India versus England series. Next week, he’ll be starting his innings behind the TV microphone.

In a coup of sorts, Sourav (who retired from international cricket as recently as November 10) has been taken on board by ESPN STAR Sports, the global commercial rights partner for the Champions League Twenty20.

Sourav’s columns have been well received — he has been making his point firmly, without ruffling feathers — and there’s no reason why he can’t be a big hit as a commentator.

Being critical, but in a “positive” manner, has been Sourav’s approach as a columnist.

That formula is unlikely to change in his new role.

The December 3-10 event featuring eight teams, including IPL winners Rajasthan Royals and runners-up Chennai Super Kings, will be held in three cities — Bangalore, Chennai and Mumbai.

Two matches have been scheduled for the opening day and Sourav’s debut will be in Bangalore, which is hosting match No.2, between the Rajasthan Royals and Dolphins (South Africa).

“It’s just going to be a start... Right now, however, I don’t intend doing commentary full-time,” Sourav told The Telegraph on Wednesday, in the lead-up to a formal announcement by the ESPN STAR Sports brass.

One can expect Sourav, who may actually be commanding a higher fee than respected veterans Sunil Gavaskar and Ravi Shastri, to pick and choose. He’s unlikely, for example, to miss the second edition of the ICC World Twenty20 (September 2009, in England).

The Champions League matches will be telecast on STAR Cricket and Sourav’s presence in the commentators’ box should guarantee high ratings in the region, even though the Kolkata Knight Riders aren’t in the competition.

Former Pakistan captain Ramiz Raja and controversial South African Herschelle Gibbs will, among others, also be doing commentary.