Happy Birthday Sourav Ganguly: 5 Big Controversies Involving ‘Dada’ That Made Headlines; In Pics

 Let me start by wishing Sourav Ganguly, who is 51 today, a very happy birthday. Ganguly, who was affectionately referred to as "Dada" by his colleagues and supporters, scored a tonne of runs for India while also serving as captain and leading his team to numerous championships and series victories. He did, however, experience a lot of controversy during his playing career. Even today, he still gets involved in various disputes. Let's examine some of the most significant ones in his current life.

While 'Dada' played cricket with a lot of heart, hit a tonne of runs, and helped India win numerous trophies, he also had a fiery temper and was unyielding. You've probably heard the tale of how, during a Test match, he had Steve Waugh wait for the toss. Waugh continues to believe that Ganguly did that on purpose to get an advantage over the Australians psychologically. Ganguly was that person; he didn't give a damn about any controversies. Look around this gallery some more. 

Sourav Ganguly and Shane Warne came at loggerheads in IPL once over the legibility of a catch. Ganguly wanted the third umpire to check the catch again while this irked Warne, who was captain of Rajasthan Royals. The two got involved in a heated debate before being separated by the umpires and teammates. (Source: Twitter)

Captain Ganguly didn't mind violating conventions when India produced a spectacular come-from-behind victory at Lord's in the Natwest Trophy final in 2002. He pulled off his shirt and enthusiastically waved it from the historic balcony of the legendary cricket venue. The MCC members did not like the act, but Ganguly did not seem to care. (Twitter as source)

Ganguly did make a comeback after tussling with Greg and eventually lost his spot in the side. He made an astonishing remark on Rahul Dravid many years after he had retired. He said that Dravid did not assist him in the Chappell affair in any way. In response, Dravid retorted that Ganguly had never approached him to discuss a solution. (Twitter as source)

In 2005, Greg Chappell made a significant impact on Indian cricket. He ultimately only caused harm in the end. The unpleasant atmosphere in the locker room as the majority of the players had turned against Chappell was one of the causes. He and former skipper Ganguly got into a fight in Zimbabwe, which was the catalyst for everything. Additionally, Ganguly finally lost his position as captain and his spot in the starting lineup as a result of it. And India's elimination from the 2007 ODI World Cup in the West Indies was the biggest blow. (Referral: Twitter)