The Nor’wester on Saturday made the executives of the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) nervous. Thankfully, the front window of the Eden Gardens press box was only shattered when a 90km/hr storm hit. The damage has been repaired quickly. Sujan Mukherjee’s calm demeanour helped to keep the pitch and outfield safe.
The Eden curator planned ahead of time. “As gloomy clouds formed, we covered the pitch and outfield with enormous stone pieces thick enough to withstand the wind.” It worked,” Mukherjee stated.
The pitch and outfield looked excellent a day before the Indian Premier League Qualifier 1 match between Gujarat Titans and Rajasthan Royals. “Batsmen will be able to play on the up, quick bowlers will gain purchase early, and spinners will come into action later,” Mukherjee said of how the surface will benefit everyone. The bounce will be good.” The curator has followed his standard procedure for preparing athletic surfaces. Under his leadership during the past seven years, the Eden surface has seldom disappointed.
According to the reactions, the Eliminator on Wednesday would be a box office hit, with Virat Kohli providing star power. But make no mistake: Qualifier 1 on Tuesday will likewise be sold out, with the authorities authorising a 100% attendance. This change of setting was necessary for the IPL. Near the conclusion of the group period, monotony began to set in. To some level, familiarity had begun to engender contempt.
Ashwin remarked about straightforward communication during his post-match presentation following his match-winning knock against CSK. “The communication about what I needed to focus on before the season was obvious.” My function had been clearly established by management.”
“I have a good understanding of the game and am inventive,” he remarked of his batting. I don’t have adequate strength; Rajamani (Prabhu, strength coach) and Zubin Bharucha deserve recognition (head of cricket). They understand my personality and the fact that I don’t bat the same way every time. They have encouraged me and I have put in a lot of practise time. For every franchise I play for, I want to bring my A-game. It’s a sign of deference.”
Returning to Eden Park, Mukherjee is adamant about not changing the strip for the Eliminator match between RCB and the Lucknow Super Giants. “For 80 overs, one pitch should enough.” A first-class game consists of 90 overs every day.”
The curator thanked his ground workers for working through the night to combat the weather, since thunderstorms are expected in the coming days. On a brighter side, Mukherjee stated, “They deserve heavy sleep for 10 days when the IPL matches are done.”
