Ahead of the Test match, initial reports indicated that the curators had prepared two pitches, leaving the final choice to captain Rohit Sharma and coach Gautam Gambhir. Regardless of their decision, the selected pitch is anticipated to differ from the one used in the opening match at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
The first Test featured a red soil pitch that favoured bounce and pace, prompting Team India to opt for three fast bowlers, sidelining spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel. In contrast, Green Park is expected to showcase a black soil pitch, which is likely to support spin and offer limited bounce.
When questioned about the potential inclusion of local player Kuldeep Yadav in the playing XI in light of the conditions, Nayar refrained from confirming the lineup. He stated, “I can’t give you the playing XI right now. Everyone is available. We don’t yet know which surface we are going to play on. Conditions will significantly influence our team composition.” He noted that the local weather conditions could change rapidly and anticipated a sunny day ahead of the match.
The last Test held at Green Park was in late 2021 during New Zealand’s tour of India. That match concluded in a draw after Ajaz Patel and Rachin Ravindra managed to survive nine overs at the end with a wicket in hand, as bad light interrupted play. The curators have committed to preparing a balanced pitch that encourages contributions from players across all disciplines. Weather is expected to be crucial for team selection, with overcast skies prevalent on the eve of the match and forecasts predicting continued rain.
Green Park’s Black Soil Pitch Expected to Favor Spinners
Curator Shiv Kumar emphasized that the pitch would offer a variety of conditions. He noted, “There will be that Chennai match feeling. It will have something for everyone. The pitch will provide bounce during the first two sessions and will be conducive for batting over the first two days. As the match progresses, spinners will become increasingly influential on the last three days.”
India is likely to retain their batting lineup without changes, while those not playing in this match may head to Lucknow for the upcoming Irani Cup.
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