In a recent turn of events that has sparked debate within the cricket community, Eden Gardens pitch curator Sujan Mukherjee has issued a detailed clarification regarding his comments on the involvement of franchises in pitch preparation. Mukherjee, who faced backlash for his initial statements, has now reversed his position, emphasizing his positive relationship with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) team management and owners.
Mukherjee clarified that no KKR official or player had requested specific pitch conditions for their opening match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). He recounted a conversation during practice where a coach inquired about the pitch’s behavior. “No official or player asked for the pitch requirement for the first match. A coach at the time of practice asked me about the behaviour of the pitch. I said ghumega bhi aur accha chalega (the pitch will turn, and it will be good for batting),” Mukherjee told Sports Tak.
He further emphasized that he has always maintained a good relationship with KKR and prepared the pitch according to BCCI guidelines. “I never denied anything to KKR. We have been in good relations for a long time. I prepared the pitch as per BCCI guidelines. Those who are accusing me know nothing,” he added.
The controversy was fueled by comments from former New Zealand cricketer Simon Doull, who suggested that curators should focus on preparing pitches according to home team requirements rather than sharing opinions about matches. Following the match against RCB, KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane expressed a preference for more spin on the Eden Gardens pitch, though he remained largely uncritical of the conditions.
When questioned about Rahane’s comments, Mukherjee initially took a firm stance on pitch preparation, stating, “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.”
He also highlighted the performance of the spinners in the match, noting, “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.”