Shamik Chakrabarty at Eden Gardens
The Eden Gardens pitch is dividing opinions. On the face of it, batting was extremely difficult on this surface, especially at the High Court End. Then again, Gautam Gambhir played down the pitch factor at the post-match press conference, saying a target of 124 was chaseable. Validation came from afar via Kevin Pietersen, the former England captain, who questioned the technique of modern-day batsmen.
“Seeing the wicket first and then the scores and then the result in Kolkata, it can only be put down to batters’ modern-day techniques,” Pietersen posted on his X (formerly Twitter) handle. Sharpshooting followed.
“Batters grow up now to hit sixes and play switch-hits. They don’t grow up to build an innings and learn the art of survival. This is fact, as I know what’s being taught and I’m a part of many player discussions,” wrote the former batsman.
He went on: “The player is not to blame at all as it is exactly where the modern-day game is. The priority right now in the game isn’t about survival or the art of playing a spinning ball. The game of cricket is now about bright lights, loud music and a financial return for cricket boards, private equity and private ownership.”
Pietersen addressed the real problem. “The elephant in the room is it won’t be mentioned cos you just can’t talk about money,” he posted, adding: “But I will, as it is real. I wish more power to the players to make as much $$$$ as they can, whilst they can. You’re just doing what decision-makers are doing but you’re just not allowed to talk about it!”
Pietersen concluded: “Keep hitting sixes and switch-hits and growing your bank accounts, dudes!”
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