'Leave the curator alone': Sunil Gavaskar's verdict on Kolkata pitch
What's the story
Indian legend Sunil Gavaskar has broken the silence on the Eden Gardens pitch controversy, following India's defeat to South Africa in the 1st Test. Speaking to India Today, he said teams shouldn't try to influence curators or dictate pitch conditions. The comments come after India was bowled out for just 93 while chasing a target of 124 on a turning track.
Independent responsibility
Gavaskar's stance on pitch preparation
Gavaskar stressed that pitch preparation should be the curator's independent responsibility. He said, "No IPL franchise can influence a curator to prepare any specific kind of pitch. The curator works independently." This comes after India's head coach Gautam Gambhir admitted they got exactly what they asked for in terms of a spin-friendly surface.
Potential backlash
Gavaskar warns against interfering with pitch conditions
Gavaskar also warned that interfering too much with the pitch can backfire. He said, "It's always best to leave the curator alone because he knows his job better than anyone else. When you start asking him to mix things up or prepare a pitch a certain way, it can easily backfire." It was reported that the Indian team management wanted a spin-friendly track that was not watered much.
Focus shift
Ganguly's view on the pitch controversy
Sourav Ganguly, the former Indian captain and the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) chief, also weighed in on the matter, saying that the pitch shouldn't draw the whole attention. He admitted it was "not the best Test wicket" but stressed India should focus more on balance, decision-making, and sticking to their strengths. He stated that India should play on good and lively wickets.
Match summary
How the Kolkata Test panned out
Electing to bat first, SA were bowled out for 159, with Jasprit Bumrah claiming a fifer. Aiden Markram (31) top-scored for them. In response, India posted 189/10, with KL Rahul (39) and Washington Sundar (29) making the top contributions. An unbeaten 55 from skipper Temba Bavuma powered SA to 153/10 in their second outing. Chasing 124 without an injured Shubman Gill, India lost regular wickets and were eventually folded for 93. The match concluded on Day 3.