As the excitement builds for the upcoming Test match between India and Bangladesh at Kanpur’s Green Park Stadium, fans are curious about the unique pitch that has been prepared for this clash. The pitch’s composition is quite special, as it features a particular kind of soil sourced from a small village, leading to intriguing gameplay dynamics. Let’s delve into how this soil was selected, the role of IIT Kanpur in the pitch preparation, and what cricket enthusiasts can expect from this match.
The Origin of the Pitch Soil
The soil used for the second Test match between India and Bangladesh has been transported from the Unnao district, specifically a pond located in the village known as ‘Kali Mitti,’ situated approximately 23 km from Kanpur. This soil is renowned for its distinctive characteristics, which are beneficial for creating a conducive pitch for cricket.
According to pitch curator Shiv Kumar, this particular soil type is unique to the pond in Kali Mitti. It underwent rigorous testing at IIT Kanpur’s laboratories, where it passed all relevant assessments to ensure it meets the necessary standards for pitch preparation. An official from the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association noted that this soil has been a staple in the preparation of the Green Park Stadium pitches for several years, contributing to its rich history and performance.
Pitch Behavior and Gameplay Expectations
The performance of a pitch heavily influences the outcome of a Test match, and the nature of the soil plays a pivotal role in this respect. The black soil pitch at Kanpur typically has a denser composition and retains more moisture, offering excellent grip for bowlers while keeping the ball’s bounce relatively low. This results in an environment where spin bowlers tend to thrive.
In contrast to the red soil pitches, which favor fast bowlers—as observed during the recent match in Chennai—the Kanpur pitch is anticipated to benefit spinners significantly. Shiv Kumar predicts that the initial two days of the match will provide favorable conditions for batting, with good bounce and manageable playing conditions. As the game progresses, particularly on the fourth day, spinners are expected to come into play as the pitch wears down.
A ‘Green Match’ Initiative
In a commendable move towards environmental sustainability, the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association has implemented a “green match” at Green Park Stadium. This initiative includes a complete ban on plastic for serving food within the stadium, promoting the use of eco-friendly alternatives like paper plates. This decision reflects a growing consciousness about environmental issues in cricket, encouraging fans to enjoy the game while being mindful of the planet.
As the match approaches, players and fans alike are eager to see how this specially prepared pitch will influence the game’s dynamics, paving the way for an exciting cricketing showdown between India and Bangladesh.
