India, Nov. 8 -- Manabendra Ghosh and Eden Gardens go back a long way but never had the umpire chaperoned a world champion. His daughter has played and trained at this cricket cathedral but never was she feted by the state's chief minister.

No wonder than that Richa Ghosh, Bengal's only World Cup winner in cricket, was somewhat tongue-tied initially. "The medal will be displayed prominently in my home," said Ghosh, recovering her poise at Saturday's felicitation ceremony organised by the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB).

One where Eden hoped she would one day become India captain. "No pressure, be yourself," said chief minister Mamata Banerjee. The comment segued with what Ghosh - smiling, ebullient even if slightly in awe - said ear...