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Calcutta: The dismal show in the previous edition of the Santosh Trophy is history now, as Bengal look forward to a sound start when they begin their campaign in the Group A qualifying round against Delhi, in Kochi, on Sunday.
The task, though, doesn’t appear to be too easy as Bengal have a rather inexperienced squad at their disposal, with captain Dipendu Biswas left to shoulder the bulk of the responsibility.
Being well aware of this particular aspect, Bengal will begin on a cautious note although Delhi don’t quite fit the bill of an illustrious opposition.
“Look, Delhi may not be the strongest, but they are certainly a good side. It’s our first match tomorrow. So we cannot take things easy.
“Regardless of how strong or weak our opponents are, we must approach the game with seriousness. Now if we focus on playing our normal game, I feel we have a good chance of beginning with a win,” Dipendu said from Kochi on Saturday.
The senior pro said that he would have to play a major role if Bengal want to win this time around. “It’s true that our squad is a little inexperienced, as some of them are really in need of a certain amount of exposure.
“Having said that, they are talented and hard working, which should help our cause.
And as far as I’m concerned, I always keep myself ready to take extra responsibility,” Dipendu added.
Bengal are likely to begin with a 4-4-2 formation with Dipendu and Bhowanipore Club’s Nabin Hela in the strike zone. “We’ll definitely push more men in the attacking-third on gaining a firm grip over the game,” Dipendu emphasised.
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