Eden Gardens curator Sujan Mukherjee dismissed KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane’s request for a spin-friendly pitch, stating that IPL rules don’t allow franchises to influence pitch conditions.
Eden Gardens pitch curator Sujan Mukherjee has dismissed Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) captain Ajinkya Rahane’s request for spin-friendly conditions in IPL 2025. Mukherjee emphasized that franchises have no influence over pitch preparations, citing IPL regulations. He also criticized KKR’s spinners for failing to make an impact.
KKR suffered a seven-wicket defeat to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in their season opener. Rahane top-scored with 56 off 31 balls, but KKR managed only 174/8. RCB chased the target in 16.2 overs, led by Virat Kohli’s unbeaten 59 off 36. Speaking after the match, Rahane had expressed a preference for pitches aiding spin.
“We would love to see the pitch helping the spin bowlers but again, this wicket was undercover for the last one-and-a-half days. Both the spinners we have, the quality they have, they can bowl in any kind of wicket and I am sure they are confident as well,” Rahane said.
However, Mukherjee insisted Eden Gardens’ surface would remain unchanged. He pointed out RCB’s spinners taking four wickets, while KKR’s struggled. Krunal Pandya picked up three wickets, and Suyash Sharma bowled Andre Russell. Mukherjee reaffirmed that the venue’s pitch conditions have remained consistent over the years and will not be altered despite team preferences.
“As long as I’m here, Eden Gardens pitch will not change. As per the IPL rules and regulations, franchises have no say over the pitch. Ever since I have taken charge (as Eden curator), the pitches here have been like this. It was like this in the past. Things haven’t changed now, and it will not be altered in the future,” Revsportz quoted the curator as saying.
“Their (RCB) spinners took four wickets between them. What did the KKR spinners do? Krunal Pandya got three wickets. Suyash Sharma turned the ball to castle Andre Russell,” he added.
KKR will look to bounce back in their next match against Rajasthan Royals on March 26 at Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati.
