NEW DELHI: As the countdown begins for the first Test between India and South Africa, all attention has turned to the pitch. Eden Gardens pitch curator Sujan Mukherjee has shed light on his discussion with India head coach Gautam Gambhir ahead of the first match.
Speaking to India Today, pitch curator Sujan Mukherjee revealed that he has been in touch with India head coach Gautam Gambhir regarding the surface preparation. Mukherjee assured that the wicket will be fair to both sides.
“The pitch will be good. It will be a sporting wicket. As the days progress, there will be some turn and bounce. But there’s something for everyone — batters and bowlers alike,” Mukherjee said after India’s optional training session on Tuesday.
Gambhir Wanted a Bit of Turn
The curator further mentioned that the team management had asked for a hint of spin but nothing excessive.
“The chat with the team was like it is for every home side. When you go to Australia, you get bounce. Similarly, Indian teams usually ask for some turn. Not much, but a bit of turn,” he said.
No ‘Rank Turner’, Clarifies Mukherjee
When asked if the pitch would qualify as a rank turner, Mukherjee replied that it was up to the players to decide.
“How can I say that? Those who play will be able to judge. Our job is to prepare a good pitch and make sure people enjoy the contest between bat and ball,” he stated.
Earlier, former India captain and Cricket Association of Bengal president Shri Sourav Ganguly had also stated that the Eden Gardens track would not be a rank turner.
