It’s perhaps the most unlikely place where Sourav Ganguly would find rich accolades being showered upon him. Specially, if the words of praise are coming straight from one of his staunchest critics Steve Waugh.

Jagmohan Dalmiya & Co have dedicated a section of the CAB’s annual statistical handbook to Ganguly. The book is the CAB’s compilation of the matches played under the aegis of the state association.

This is the first time that the CAB has pepped up the handbook with content beyond the usual statistical data.

The handbook’s introductory section, which deals with the CAB’s tribute to Ganguly, is titled Celebrating A Legend and is packed with photographs of the iconic cricketer. One of them shows Ganguly receiving the felicitation trophy from CAB president Dalmiya.

Most striking is the compilation of quotes on Ganguly, featuring Steve Waugh, Geoffrey Boycott, Sunil Gavaskar, Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid. Waugh’s words of praise for Ganguly stand out the most, considering that the two have been known to be bitter rivals on their heyday.

Sourav is very competitive and knows what he wants… His toughness of character is what is needed in Indian cricket… He has proved to be one of the best captains… He has great leadership qualities — Waugh is quoted as saying in the CAB’s 2009 statistical handbook.