By Sabyasachi Bagchi

He could not find a place in Bengal cricket administration's plans. Yet he was one of the key architects behind Bengal's only national title triumph in the last seven to eight years. Despite that, the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) did not consider Sourashis Lahiri suitable for a coaching role. However, while the state association may have overlooked him, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has placed its trust in him.

Under the vision of National Cricket Academy (NCA) chief VVS Laxman, former Bengal cricketer Sourashis Lahiri has once again been handed a major responsibility by the BCCI.

Lahiri has been selected as a coach for the BCCI's upcoming Emerging Men's Tournament, which is scheduled to begin on July 6.

The same Sourashis Lahiri who was removed from Bengal's coaching setup and even faced an inquiry committee after speaking to the media is now entrusted with shaping the future stars of Indian cricket.

On Saturday, Lahiri received official communication from the BCCI, asking him to report to the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru on July 5.

This assignment is part of the Indian cricket team's Red Ball Project. Following concerns over India's recent performances in Test cricket, the BCCI has launched this initiative to develop and nurture young talent for the longer format of the game.

A few weeks ago, Lahiri played an important role in a special camp that brought together the country's best Under-25 red-ball cricketers. The Emerging Men's Tournament will feature those same players and will continue until July 24.

At the conclusion of the tournament, an Emerging India squad will be selected. Lahiri will continue to play a crucial role in that process as the assistant coach of the India A team.

Though he may not currently have a role in Bengal cricket, Lahiri continues to prove his credentials on the national stage.

Speaking to Extra Time Bangla before beginning his new assignment, Lahiri shared his thoughts:

"My own rise in cricket began through a similar Challenger Trophy. Under Gautam Gambhir's captaincy, we toured Sri Lanka. We were the first batch of the NCA. Now, I will be starting a new innings there as a coach. It feels wonderful."

The former off-spinner added:

"A call from the BCCI is undoubtedly a significant achievement for me. I come from a very ordinary family and played for Bengal for 16 years. The journey was never easy. For nearly 35 years, I have been associated with Bengal cricket in different capacities. Today, my identity and my dreams revolve around coaching. This is my profession and my passion. Difficult times teach you many lessons. Throughout this journey, the support of my parents, my wife, and my son has been my greatest strength."