Sourav Ganguly unveils his own statuette on birthday

Kolkata: Former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly had a memorable 43rd birthday on Wednesday as he unveiled a 3D printed statuette of himself and soaked in the adulation from the game's fraternity including legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Anil Kumble.

Ganguly, who led India in 49 Test matches and 147 One Day Internationals, unveiled the statuette at a brief function in his palatial south Kolkata residence.

Former Indian cricketer Sourav Ganguly cuts a cake to celebrate his birthday at his Behala residence in Kolkata on Wednesday. Pic/PTI

"I am overwhelmed by the love and affection that my fans in general and those here in Kolkata in particular continue to shower on me," said the visibly elated local boy.

"I have seen such figurines abroad and am sure 3d statuettes will be embraced by all with equal enthusiasm," he said.

Former Indian cricketer Sourav Ganguly unveils his own statue to celebrate his birthday at his Behala residence in Kolkata on Wednesday. Pic/PTI

Ganguly was flooded with wishes from cricketers, sports administrators and his legions of fans.

Sachin Tendulkar, who combined with Ganguly to form the best ODI opening pair, tweeted "#HappyBirthdayDada @SGanguly99, stay young as always!!!".

Kumble tweeted: "Happy birthday dada @SGanguly99 have a great year ahead! God bless!"

The International Cricket Council called him "one of the finest Indian batsmen of the 21st century".

The Board of Control for Cricket in India in its tweet wished Ganguly "a very happy birthday".

At a function where the Ganguly co-owned Indian Super League franchise Atletico de Kolkata unveiled the team jersey, leading industrialists Sanjiv Goenka, HarshavardhanANeotia, and team Head Coach Antonio Lopez Habas sang in unison "Happy birthday to you" as the former cricketer watched with a smile.