Gautam Gambhir hugs underfire Eden Gardens pitch curator during optional practice session after dreadful defeat in 1st Test

Eden Gardens pitch curator Sujan Mukherjee has been copping criticism after India’s 30-run loss to Temba Bavuma’s South Africa in first Test. The pitch was heavily tilted in bowlers’ favour as batters found it tough to block it out or play their shots. On November 18, India head coach Gautam Gambhir met Mukherjee during an optional practice session. Gambhir who defended the pitch curator in the post-match press conference hugged Mukherjee.

Who turned up for practice session?

Dropped from the playing eleven for Kolkata Test, Sai Sudharsan and wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel fine-tuned their skills days ahead of the second Test which will commence on November 22 at Barsapara Stadium, Guwahati.

ALSO READ: 'Why would I hit anyone? Am I Harmanpreet?': Bangladesh captain Nigar Sultana Joty drags World Cup winner's name responding to physical assault allegations

Gambhir defended Mukherjee despite collapses

Before becoming head coach of India, Gambhir was Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) as well. After Gambhir left, KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane had reservations about the pitch in the previous season.

ALSO READ: Selectors recall this young player as captain Shubman Gill remains doubtful for 2nd Test vs South Africa

However, Gambhir had no issues with the pitch curator despite the defeat. In fact, he said that Mukherjee was very supportive and prepared a pitch what he had instructed.

“This is exactly the pitch we were looking for. This is exactly the pitch,” said Gambhir in the post-match press conference.

“And I feel that the curator was very, very helpful. And this is exactly what we wanted. And this is exactly what we got. When you don't play well, this is what happens.”

Gambhir unhappy with batters' approach

While Gambhir praised the pitch curator, he was critical of batters’ intent. Instead of going for big shots, he wanted them to show temperament by battling it out in the middle as conditions got tough.

“The point is that you should be able to know how to play turn. And this is what we asked for, and this is what we got. I thought the curator was very supportive," said the former Indian opener.

“I still believe that irrespective of how the wicket was, 123 (124) was chaseable. And I felt that if you are willing to put your head down and if you have a solid defence, if you have the temperament, you can definitely score runs. Yes, it might not be a wicket that is going to be very flamboyant, where you can play those big shots."