Eden wicket to be a 'lively’ one

There have been lots of speculations about the pink ball from both Bangladesh and India as the two countries gear up for their first-ever day-night Test. However, the pitch is set to play a big part in this historic Test as well. Sujan Mukherjee, the chief curator of The Eden Gardens spoke to reporters and reiterated that the pitch is the same for all types of balls but there is going to be a lot of life to entertain the crowd.

The red ball gets its colour from the leather but pink ball is a coloured ball and has a glossy outer cover. A good grass covering is important and a good surface reduces wear and tear on the ball.

"No sperate preparation for pink ball. Players who have played pink ball matches have told me that it's better when there is more grass and the wicket is hard. Also it's better if we keep the outfield grass short," Sujan told The Daily Star.

"The ball will move around a bit and the wicket will be very good. The fielders will feel comfortable too," he added.

Bangladesh were bundled out for 150 and 213 in their two innings during the first Test. The Tigers will have to content not only with good swing but some extra bounce as well.

"My wickets have bounce and the pink ball will bounce too. It's going to be lively wicket. It going to be a good wicket for pacers but also for the batsmen. It's not like someone will come and bowl fast and then expect wickets. The bowlers will have to bowl well. The spectators will enjoy the game if it's a good game. Bangladesh are a young team. Some time will have to be given since it's a very young side. Two senior players are not there. One or two senior players are there. Given how Bangladesh have been playing for the past few years, they will play well too. I want it to be an enjoyable Test," the curator opined.

Dew factor is likely to play a part and batsmen will be hoping for some dew so that run-scoring is easier during the evening with the pitch very batting friendly during the afternoon session.

"I remained here till 7 or 7:30 for the past two to three days and the amount of dew there was negotiable. Even yesterday I saw that there was not much dew. We have applied anti-dew sprays so that the dew goes away faster," he assured regarding the dew factor playing a big role or not.