Need to survive four days: Sanjeev Sharma

CHANDIGARH: It took them more than 24 hours to reach Chandigarh from Itanagar. But the

Arunachal Pradesh

side has no complaints because they are here to play cricket.


Arunachal Pradesh who are only into their second Ranji Trophy season will lock horns with debutants Chandigarh at the Sector 16 Cricket Stadium, here from Monday. In their maiden season, Arunachal Pradesh lost to Meghalaya by seven wickets on debut. They finished the 2018-19 tournament eighth in the table, with no wins from their eight matches.

Arunachal Pradesh's coach Sanjeev Sharma and their skipper Song Tacho spent a good 10 minutes on the pitch, before heading towards the net.

"Batting paradise. It's a beautiful pitch and if any batsman will get in it will be very difficult to get him out. There will be help for bowlers also because they have left grass on it. Hoping for an exciting match," said Sharma, who played two Tests and 23 One Day Internationals for India in the late 80s. His last Test was a memorable one against England at the Lord's in 1990, when Graham Gooch scored a triple century (333). The English skipper was dropped on 29 by Kiran More off Sharma's bowling.

"It's a great exposure for the boys. Our main aim is to survive and take every game to Day 4. This is what I have told my boys. This team is only in their second season and with time, they are only going to get better with experience," he added.

On his squad, the former India cricketer said players like Samarth Seth, Rahul Dalal, Akhilesh Sahani and Techi Neri have grabbed the opportunity and are playing well.
"We have got a very good combination of young and experienced players in our side. We had a good preparation before the season and the boys are eager to perform well," Sharma said.

As far as the playing XI is concerned, Sharma kept his cards close to his chest.
"We will decide it in the morning before the toss," Sharma said with a smile on his face.

Squad: Arunachal Pradesh: Yab Niya, Neelam Obi, Song Tacho (Captain), Kengo Bam, Techi Neri, Karkir Taye, Takam Tallum, Licha Tehi, Indiya Toku, Nabam Tempol, Akhilseh Sahani, Kamasha Yangfo, Samarth Seth, Techi Doria, Rahul Dalal