Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) President Sourav Ganguly believes the Eden Gardens pitch will favour Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s India side today. Having actively participated in the stadium’s new layout, the 43-year old was optimistic of a close match between the traditional heavyweights.
He said, “I personally feel the pitch will favour India as it is not a big turner. It’s a perfect T-20 wicket, giving both bowlers and batsmen a chance to prove their mettle. However, I think India will edge out Pakistan, as they the ball won’t turn much, and it will be easy for the likes of Virat Kohli to play his shots. I don’t see a repeat of the New Zealand match.”
That being said, Pakistan has good knowledge of this turf, after defeating Sri Lanka and Bangladesh in both their matches so far. They will also be buoyed by the performances of Captain Shahid Afridi, who scored 49 and picked up two wickets in their first group match against Bangladesh.
He added, “The New Zealand match was just a freak result, and I’m quite sure they will bounce back. India have consistently proven themselves over the past few matches as well. They should win this particular match. This is a do or die fixture, and they must play to the best of their abilities to win this one.”
Meanwhile, reports of torrential rain in Kolkata have been dampening the mouth-watering prospect. A Kolkata met department official said, “There is a strong chance of rain in the evening from around 2-4 and 6-8. The intensity won’t be that high though.”
More to follow..
