Calcutta: Amit Kuila has had a dream debut in the Ranji Trophy this season. The right-arm quick, who has played against Punjab and Railways, has taken 13 wickets so far.

Together with Ashok Dinda, he forms a potent combination that has the ability to run through any side. The 21-year-old was the cynosure as the players met Cricket Association of Bengal president Sourav Ganguly at the Eden on Wednesday evening.

Sourav also helped him get a personal sponsor in Puma.

"I was a bit nervous before my first match against Punjab... Yuvraj Singh was also playing in that match. But once I got a wicket, I got the confidence needed...

"Against Railways, I was sure of my role and that helped," said Kuila, who got a five-wicket haul on debut.

"The Vision 2020 camps have helped me a lot. Interacting with the likes of Muttiah Muralidharan has benefited me. Also, Ranadeb Bose has been of great help.

"He has always told me to bowl a fullish length instead of bowling short. That advice helped me in getting wickets," added Kuila.

Bowling in tandem with Dinda has also helped. "Dinda has always told me to bowl to my strengths... To focus on pitching at the right place. That's what I've been doing. I, though, understand that I need to be quicker," said Kuila.

Sourav reminded the players of the tough task ahead and that they should keep up the good work. Captain Manoj Tiwary also spoke on similar lines.

"We can't afford to be complacent. We have to be consistent and take one match at a time. The immediate target is to ensure a spot in the knock-out stages."