Test cricket is returning to Kolkata’s iconic Eden Gardens after six long years, and this time, the occasion carries a special touch of history. To commemorate the Gandhi-Mandela Trophy between India and South Africa, the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) has introduced a unique coin for the toss — featuring Mahatma Gandhi on one side and Nelson Mandela on the other, honouring two global icons who symbolise peace, equality, and the shared freedom struggles of both nations.
Symbolic toss and Dalmiya Memorial Lecture add grandeur to India vs South Africa Test
The first Test of the two-match series will be played at Eden Gardens, fondly known as the “Mecca of Indian cricket.” The “City of Joy” is already abuzz with excitement as India gear up to face the reigning World Test Champions, South Africa. Even before a ball is bowled, the symbolic toss coin is set to make history.
On the eve of the match, the Cricket Association of Bengal will host the Jagmohan Dalmiya Memorial Lecture on November 13. Legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar will deliver the keynote address, with players from both teams expected to attend. Dalmiya, who once served as president of both the BCCI and the ICC, is widely credited with transforming India into a global cricketing powerhouse.
Team India arrived in Kolkata on Sunday evening after completing their ODI series in Australia. Captain Shubman Gill, pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, and head coach Gautam Gambhir were among the first to reach. On Monday morning, Gambhir, accompanied by batting coach Sitanshu Kotak, inspected the Eden pitch, followed later by former India captain and CAB president Sourav Ganguly, who assessed the surface and had it covered to guard against dew and possible rain.
When asked about the pitch, Ganguly said, “It looks a very good wicket,” while clarifying that no request had been made for a rank turner.
The second Test of the series will be played at the ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam, starting November 22.
