“I had the good fortune to meet with Mr Chandu Borde, the Manager of the Indian squad before it began its practice session and informed him that I had with me a painting of the ground where Raman Lamba played for seven seasons when in Ireland, and that the club was celebrating its 150th birthday. I was hoping that someone could sign the print” said the North Down stalwart.
“He was charming and interested and asked me to wait until practice was over and he could arrange something. Many pictures were taken during the morning with full cooperation from the players and I met with Rohit and Odita, both working for the Indian media. Rohit was particularly interested in the history of the club and made copious notes during our talk and asked if he could visit The Green.
Meanwhile I met with Russell Radhakrishnan a member of the Management team and he was extremely helpful. Through him I was given the opportunity of securing the autographs of the whole squad and the players were very willing, having been briefed about the painting and the Indian association with the club.
Sourav Ganguly almost escaped from another exit but returned to sign the painting and Sachin Tendulkar was reminded about Raman stating that the very young Tendulkar was the player of the future. He seemed pleased about that and wished the club well. Chandu Borde, himself a fifty cap Indian Test player, was the penultimate signature, the last being Ajit Agarkar who set aside his lunch, under the watchful eye of his Manager to complete the signings.
The experience confirmed my thoughts about the Indian players and Management, that where they can help, they will and especially when the name of Raman Lamba is mentioned.”
Below is the finished print, signed by the entire team and management.
