Former cricket captain Sourav Ganguly in Patna on Saturday. Telegraph picture

Patna, Oct. 15: Chief minister Nitish Kumar today scored on a cricketer’s pitch, as former Team India captain Sourav Ganguly heaped praises on him for the development of the state.

Ganguly told The Telegraph: “I have never met the chief minister but I have heard and read a lot about him. It seems he has brought commendable changes in the state through his leadership. I have also heard that he has improved the law and order situation in the state. Even though I am not into politics, it would be unfair not to talk about a person who has brought about so many changes in the state.”

He said Nitish was capable of changing the sports scenario in the state. “As far as the condition of sports in the state is concerned, I would like to say that Nitish is capable enough to change the scenario.”

On the condition of cricket in Bihar, the Prince of Calcutta said: “I think it depends on the opportunities given to players in the state and players like Varun Aaron is from Bihar and he is a good player. The state needs to produce players who can represent the country.”

He said: “I have heard that Dhoni has shown interest in opening a cricket academy in Bihar. I think it is a very good decision. Cricket academies are very important to nurture the game at any place.”

Ganguly said Dhoni and Saurav Tiwari have set examples for aspiring cricketers in the state. “If they can excel, why can’t the others?” he said.

The former India cricket captain was in the city to launch a new product of Captain TMT, a Bengal-based steel company.

Sourav also emphasised on having a good cricket stadium in Bihar. “I think the state should have an international-level cricket stadium. If the stadium is not in a good condition, the state government needs to look into it,” he said.

On frequent injury to the Indian players, Ganguly said: “There is no doubt that the Indian team is playing too much cricket, which results in injuries. But still this is a very good Indian side. However, players like Dhoni need rest as they have been playing back-to-back matches.”

On Shoaib Akhtar’s remarks that Sachin, Ganguly and Dravid were scared of his short balls, Ganguly said: “Yes, I was really scared (of his bowling). He is a good cricketer but he should speak less.”