Cricket
With the first Test starting November 14, Indian captain Shubman Gill inspects the pitch and raises concerns about its condition
Gill found the Eden Gardens pitch dry and brown, with only patches of grass. Waterlogging last week has left the surface tricky for the first day
New CAB president Sourav Ganguly personally inspected the pitch after Gill’s concerns. He ensured ground staff took steps to improve the surface for play
After completing their Australia tour, only 7 Indian players, including Gill, practiced at Eden Gardens. Gill and bowling coach Morne Morkel inspected the pitch thoroughly
The dry pitch may help South Africa’s spin trio Harmer, Muthusamy, and Maharaj, while fast bowlers may get help from reverse swing later in the match
South Africa’s balanced attack of pacers like Kagiso Rabada and spinners could trouble India on this dry pitch. Muthusamy’s recent form makes him a key threat