Bengal fast bowler Sayan Ghosh faced an extremely difficult personal loss just days before the start of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2026. His father passed away on November 12 after battling lung cancer for some time. Following the heartbreaking news, the 34-year-old immediately travelled to Kolkata to be with his family and perform the last rites.

However, in a remarkable show of determination, Ghosh returned to Mumbai on November 13 and rejoined the Bengal team's camp ahead of its important match against Karnataka at the Wankhede Stadium.

His decision reminded cricket fans of Virat Kohli's emotional return to the cricket field in 2006, when he played a Ranji Trophy match for Delhi just a day after his father's death.

Sayan Ghosh Shows Remarkable Determination

Sayan Ghosh had arrived in Mumbai with the Bengal squad on Wednesday ahead of the team's Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy campaign. However, the following morning brought devastating news: his father, who had been suffering from lung cancer, had passed away.

Ghosh immediately left for Kolkata to be with his family during the difficult period and complete the last rites.

Despite the personal tragedy, the fast bowler returned to Mumbai by Friday evening and joined his teammates at the team camp. His return reflected his determination to remain connected with the team during an emotionally challenging time.

Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) treasurer Sanjay Das confirmed his return and said that Ghosh wanted to be with his teammates. He also assured that the association was standing firmly by the player.

Bengal Coach Laxmi Ratan Shukla Praises His Spirit

Bengal head coach Laxmi Ratan Shukla also spoke about Ghosh's decision to return to the squad.

He explained that the team received the tragic news on Thursday morning, after which Ghosh immediately travelled home. However, the player was determined to rejoin his teammates.

Shukla also revealed that Ghosh's father had been unwell for a long time and had always wished to see his son continue playing cricket. According to the coach, Ghosh decided to return to the team as a way of honouring his father's wish and staying close to his teammates.

Virat Kohli's 2006 Ranji Trophy Moment Comes to Mind

Ghosh's return has drawn comparisons with an emotional moment from Virat Kohli's early cricketing career.

In December 2006, Kohli's father passed away while the young cricketer was playing a Ranji Trophy match for Delhi against Karnataka. Despite the personal tragedy, Kohli returned to the field the following day and continued batting before later attending his father's last rites.

Both incidents have reminded cricket fans of the deeply personal sacrifices and emotional challenges that professional sportspersons sometimes face.

Sayan Ghosh's return to the Bengal camp has earned appreciation from the cricketing community, while the team and association have expressed their support for him during this difficult period.