The playing surface at Eden Gardens, which hosted the recent Test between India and South Africa, has received a “satisfactory” rating from the International Cricket Council. ICC match referee Richie Richardson delivered the assessment after the match, confirming that the venue will not face any penalty.
ICC Pitch Rating Explained
The “satisfactory” grade places the pitch in the second tier of the ICC’s four-level rating system. It sits below “very good” but above “unsatisfactory” and “unfit.” As a result, Eden Gardens avoids demerit points or further action despite the attention the surface attracted.
Conditions That Shaped the Match
The Kolkata Test ended inside three days due to demanding batting conditions. Uneven bounce appeared from the opening over, while increasing turn troubled batters as the match progressed. The surface consistently offered assistance to both fast bowlers and spinners.
South Africa’s bowlers exploited these conditions effectively. Off-spinner Simon Harmer and left-arm seamer Marco Jansen played decisive roles. India’s bowlers also benefited, with Jasprit Bumrah claiming a five-wicket haul on the opening day.
Batting Struggles on Both Sides
Batting remained difficult throughout the contest. Neither team managed to cross the 200-run mark in any innings, highlighting how strongly the pitch influenced the game. India’s fourth-innings chase ended early, as the hosts were dismissed for under 100 while pursuing a modest target.
Reactions From the Indian Camp
Discussion around the pitch continued after the match. India head coach Gautam Gambhir initially said the surface matched the team’s expectations. Later, batting coach Sitanshu Kotak clarified that the side had not anticipated the level of uneven bounce.
Kotak explained that the earlier comments were made to support the Eden Gardens curator rather than to reflect the team’s preparation plans.
Series Context
The following Test in Guwahati offered a more even surface for batters. South Africa once again secured a win, completing a 2–0 series sweep.
Final ICC Verdict
While opinions on pitch preparation remain divided, the ICC’s evaluation confirms that the Eden Gardens surface met acceptable standards. Despite challenging conditions, the pitch stayed within the governing body’s guidelines.
