‘Winning championships and player growth very important’

Former Vidarbha U-23 team’s head coach Amit Pagnis is delighted to return to his home state as Mumbai U-23 team’s head coach after the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) announced his appointment recently. Pagnis, who led the India U-19 team in the 1998 World Cup in South Africa, is confident he can help Mumbai win trophies.

“I have learnt cricket and played this game in Mumbai. So, I’m excited to come back after almost four years and coach. It’s a very good opportunity for me and I’m looking forward to getting ready for the upcoming season. I’m ready to contribute to Mumbai’s success,” Pagnis told
mid-day on Monday.

Pagnis, 47, a former Mumbai and Railways batsman, who scored 5851 runs in 95 first-class games, admitted the expectations will be high.

“It’s always challenging to coach Mumbai because anything less than winning [the trophy] is an unsuccessful season. So, there are always challenges and high expectations. As a coach, you have to accept these challenges and I’m ready for it. High expectations will motivate me,” said Pagnis.

The Mumbai U-23 team will begin their CK Nayudu Trophy campaign against Bengal on October 12.

“Winning the championship and ensuring players’ growth is very important. If we focus on the players’ growth, and they develop well, we will automatically win the championship and also contribute players to the senior team [Ranji team],” Pagnis signed off.