Even with a rain-free morning and bright sunshine gracing the later hours, play on the third day of the second Test between India and Bangladesh was unfortunately halted without any cricket action at Kanpur’s Green Park Stadium. The conditions appeared favorable for the game, yet unforeseen circumstances led to the decision to call off the day’s play, leaving fans and players alike disappointed. This unforeseen pause in the match adds to the anticipation for when the two teams can finally take to the field.
Pitch Curator Delivers Bold Statement:
The reason for the disruption? A surprisingly wet outfield. Frustration mounted as both teams stayed at their hotel while match officials conducted three inspections of the field, all without the presence of covers. Despite hopes for play, the conditions remained unsuitable, resulting in two consecutive days lost to rain. This situation has left players and fans alike eager for a resolution to get the match back on track.
Shiv Kumar, the pitch curator for the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA), assured that the situation in Kanpur was well-managed. However, he acknowledged feeling perplexed by the concerns raised by the match officials. His comments reflect a sense of uncertainty surrounding the decisions made regarding the playable conditions, despite his confidence in the pitch itself.
He said, “ They gave us three different time for inspection but never told us what is the issue. Which area was wet or whatever is the problem. I told them that you can start the match but if you have any concern let me know.”
Pitch Inspection on Day 3:
After losing both the morning and lunch sessions, match referee Jeff Crowe carried out several inspections. However, he remained dissatisfied with the wet patches on the field, particularly in the deep mid-wicket region near Pavilion C. Concerns about the dampness of the 30-yard circle prompted them to postpone the pitch inspection until 2 PM, as Crowe and the umpires hoped for sunlight to dry the affected areas before play could resume.
Prior to the third inspection set for 2 PM, a senior ground official informed IANS that the match officials requested the ground to dry naturally. However, they were not provided specific details about the exact locations of the wet patches, leading to uncertainty about the conditions for play.
A ground staff said, “Match officials have asked us to wait for the natural light then only we can continue the play. The pitch and another part of the ground are perfectly good, there are certain areas of concern but we can start the play. If they want to wait for the sunlight, then they should have given the next inspection time at 1pm, because a little sunlight is always here which will dry the concerned area in an hour. We have already lost two sessions, next inspection at 2pm will lead us to call off the match.”
Fans traveling from various regions of the state expressed their disappointment with the facilities at Green Park, feeling disheartened by the situation. They urged the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association to better maintain one of the country’s oldest stadiums, which has been a venue for Test cricket since 1952, ensuring it remains in top condition.
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