In the heart of the IPL 2025 season, Sujan Mukherjee, the seasoned pitch curator at Eden Gardens, finds himself at the center of a fiery debate: home advantage versus a balanced pitch. As the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) management seeks spin-friendly tracks, Mukherjee stands firm, defending his craft while ensuring the pitches remain fair for all. In an exclusive conversation with Indiabet, Mukherjee opens up about the criticism he’s faced, his relationship with KKR, and the delicate art of pitch preparation. Here’s the inside scoop:
Facing the Heat: Sujan Mukherjee on Fan Criticism
Q: Were you hurt by the backlash from KKR fans after the Eden Gardens pitch didn’t favor spinners in the IPL 2025 opener against RCB?
Sujan Mukherjee: I don’t follow social media, but hearing the criticism stung. My goal has always been to create a sporting pitch that offers something for everyone—batters, pacers, and spinners alike.
KKR’s Spin Dilemma: Rahane’s Request
Q: KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane expressed a desire for a spin-friendly track. What’s your take?
Sujan Mukherjee: There was turn in the first match against RCB. KKR also has strong pacers, like last season. If you rewatch the game, you’ll see spin played a role, especially in Andre Russell’s dismissal.
With the IPL played on a home-and-away basis, the home team asking for a favourable surface shouldn’t be an issue. After all, that’s the very basis of bilateral cricket. Stephen Fleming & @parthiv9‘s comments only intensify the debate.@BoriaMajumdar https://t.co/lWII7Ty05U
— Indiabet Global (@IndiabetGlobal) March 30, 2025
What’s Next for Eden Gardens?
Q: Will the upcoming matches at Eden Gardens offer more assistance to spinners?
Sujan Mukherjee: There’s already been some spin. Creating rank turners could backfire. Fans want entertaining cricket with something for everyone. That said, spinners will find more help in the coming games.
KKR vs Sunrisers Hyderabad: A Turning Point?
Q: Can KKR expect a spin-friendly pitch for their April 3 clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad?
Sujan Mukherjee: Spin was evident in the first game. It’s up to the players to capitalize on the conditions.
The Art of Pitch Preparation
Q: How are the pitches for the remaining matches shaping up?
Sujan Mukherjee: Everything is on track. Pitch preparation is a delicate process. We’re watering and mowing the grass regularly to ensure optimal conditions.
KKR’s Formal Request: Will Mukherjee Deliver?
Q: If KKR formally requests a spin-friendly pitch, will you oblige?
Sujan Mukherjee: My door is always open. The state association (CAB) and KKR have a strong rapport. Once the team returns from Mumbai, we’ll discuss and I’ll do my best to accommodate their needs.
Exclusive
Home advantage is natural in the @IPL or not? How should curators react to home team demands?
Sujan Mukherjee who has been in the eye of the storm takes all straight questions.
Answers everything to @debasissen
Full interview 12 noon.pic.twitter.com/Qmy1oQJ5a8
— Indiabet Global (@IndiabetGlobal) March 30, 2025
Home Advantage: A BCCI Mandate
Q: Should franchises have home advantage?
Sujan Mukherjee: BCCI guidelines are clear: the chief curator of the host association, under BCCI supervision, is solely responsible for pitch preparation. Franchises and players have no say in the matter.
Chennai’s Conundrum: Fleming’s Frustration
Q: Chennai Super Kings coach Stephen Fleming highlighted home advantage after losing to RCB at Chepauk. Your thoughts?
Sujan Mukherjee: The Chepauk wicket was re-laid last season. Traditionally, it’s a slow turner. Credit to RCB’s bowlers—even CSK can lose at home.
Experts Weigh In: Bhogle and Doull’s Take
Q: Harsha Bhogle and Simon Doull suggested franchises should have home advantage. How do you respond?
Sujan Mukherjee: I focus on what the spectators and my association say. My accountability lies with the BCCI to produce a fair, sporting wicket.
A Message to KKR: Unity in Purpose
Q: What’s your final message to KKR’s team, management, and fans?
Sujan Mukherjee: We all want KKR to succeed this season. That’s the ultimate goal.
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