IPL 2024: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) opener Phil Salt has thrown his weight behind the Eden Gardens ground staff, praising them for providing consistent playing surfaces throughout. These comments come after the pitch curator, Sujan Mukherjee, refuted claims that the pitch for the KKR vs SRH match was tailored to favor the home team.
Phil Salt statement comes after a remarkable performance by KKR, where they clinched victory in a nail-biting encounter against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). A magnificent final over from Harshit Rana, defending 13 runs, and a spectacular all-round display from Andre Russell helped KKR secure a win by four runs.
Phil Salt praises consistent playing surfaces
Phil Salt, a last-minute addition to the KKR squad due to Jason Roy’s withdrawal, played a crucial role in their opening match victory.
“The wickets we have been training on, practice matches and for tonight match – they have all been pretty similar. So credit to groundsmen for producing such consistent surfaces. I feel bounce here is pretty much more here, and I feel it’s hard to face new ball rather than old ball. It’s mainly about adapting to your scoring areas,” he said at the post-match press conference.
Phil Salt smashed 54 off 40 balls in his KKR debut.
Eden Gardens Pitch Curator denies tailoring pitch for KKR
Prior to the KKR vs SRH clash, Mukherjee had firmly rejected allegations of pitch-tampering to suit KKR’s style of play. “There’s absolutely no question of favoring the home team,” he asserted. “The IPL rules don’t mandate pitches to benefit the home side. It’s entirely up to the curator’s discretion.”
Focus on Bounce Rather Than Spin
Mukherjee elaborated on his approach, explaining, “While KKR has traditionally had a spin-heavy attack, this year they acquired Mitchell Starc, a premier pacer. So, it’s not just about spinners. I also haven’t received any instructions from KKR management.”
A Pitch for Everyone
He further clarified, “The Eden wicket isn’t devoid of spin; it offers some turn. Remember the ODI World Cup match between South Africa and Australia? My aim is to prepare pitches with good bounce and slight spin, making them enjoyable for both batters and the spectators. The audience desires a pitch that offers something for everyone.”
KKR Hopes for Spin Magic
With Gambhir, their two-time championship-winning captain, returning as the mentor, KKR undoubtedly hopes to replicate their past success built around a spin-dominant bowling attack. However, based on the curator’s comments and Salt’s experience, it appears the Eden Gardens pitch for the IPL season might offer a more balanced contest between bat and ball.
