U19 Cricket World Cup India team manager and Sikkim Cricket Association (SICA) president Lobzang G. Tenzing returned home to a rousing welcome today after India’s ICC U19 Cricket World Cup win with the cricket administrator terming his appointment as manager the BCCI’s unstinting support to the Northeastern States.
Lobzang was received at Pakyong airport by SICA officials and members, local cricketers and well-wishers. India defeated England by four wickets to win the record-extending fifth men’s U19 Cricket World Cup in the West Indies.
Speaking about the victory in the U19 Cricket World Cup, Lobzang said the win was possibly the best for any Indian cricket team after the 1983 World Cup.
U19 Cricket World Cup Victory
“Despite the Covid upheaval and many other challenges, the players remained strong and never faltered. The support staffs were also excellent. This win could perhaps be one of the most special wins for India,” Lobzang added.
“We were not the strongest team at the start of the tournament. But as the tournament progressed, the team got better. We have a brilliant set of young players and I am sure some of them will achieve great success in senior men’s cricket.”
Asked about donning the role of a team manager, he said, “As a cricket administrator and belonging from the Northeast, I did not think that I would be managing the Indian cricket team. It was a completely new experience for me.
My deepest respect goes to BCCI secretary Jay Shah for having faith in me, and the Northeast family, for giving me this huge responsibility and honour.”
Lobzang maintained, “Every time I go out of Sikkim, I make sure that I communicate with cricket bodies of North East States beforehand and take forward our issues to the BCCI. I also seek their suggestions because it’s not about me but the entire Northeast.”
Lobzang said that he becoming the manager of Indian cricket team was a proof that hard work and sincerity pays off. “The more you work the more respect you will get from BCCI and if you are sincere, they will always keep you in high regards. Otherwise, how would national team have a manager from the Northeast?”
Lobzang was felicitated by SICA and district cricket committees today in a reception programme held at Vivanta Sikkim, Pakyong. On the occasion, SICA also announced the adhoc district cricket committee of the newly-created Pakyong district.
The BCCI had earlier appointed Lobzang as the manager of the Indian team for the World Cup and the U19 Asia Cup in UAE, which was also won by India.
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