Eden Gardens curator Sujan Mukherjee has finally addressed the rising debate around the pitch that came under heavy scrutiny following India’s surprising 30-run defeat to South Africa in the first Test. For days, critics, former players and analysts had been pointing fingers at the surface, arguing that it played too unevenly and contributed significantly to India’s collapse.
Mukherjee, however, strongly disagreed with this narrative. He clarified that the pitch was not faulty and insisted that the criticism was largely based on assumptions rather than technical understanding.
According to him, the wicket behaved within the normal range expected in a Test match and certainly did not justify the level of backlash it received. He stated that the pitch “is not bad at all,” defending both his work and the nature of the surface that was prepared for the game.
Prepared “As Instructed”
Mukherjee emphasised that he followed the exact guidelines provided to him before the match. He said, “I know everyone is questioning this pitch. Honestly, I know how to prepare a pitch for a Test. That’s exactly what I did. I did it as instructed.” These words highlight that he did not act independently or make unusual decisions—everything was done according to the framework given to him.
Moving further, he pointed out that many opinions being circulated were from individuals who may not fully understand the science and techniques behind pitch preparation. As he put it, “I don’t think about what others say. Not everyone knows everything.” This statement reflected his confidence and experience in the profession.
Mukherjee has worked for years on major domestic and international matches, and he reaffirmed that he always approaches his job with seriousness and integrity. “So I do my job with dedication, and I want to continue doing that in the future as well,” he added, making it clear that the controversy has not shaken his commitment.
Match Context and Reactions
India’s shock defeat—being bowled out for 93 while chasing just 124—amplified the criticism of the pitch. Many believed that such a collapse must have been pitch-related. However, members of the Indian team management disagreed. Head coach Gautam Gambhir stated that it “was not an unplayable wicket, there were no demons,” arguing that the failure lay more in shot selection, patience and technique rather than pitch conditions.
Analysts noted that South Africa too struggled, indicating that the challenge was equal for both sides. Mukherjee’s defence adds a deeper layer to the discussion, suggesting that the outcome may have been influenced more by execution than by the nature of the wicket.
Get the latest cricket news here, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram for more such updates.