With one eye on the proposed day-night Test against New Zealand later this year, Indian duo of Mohammed Shami and Wriddhiman Saha will participate in the first ever pink-ball match in the country.
The final of Bengal Super League between Mohun Bagan and Bhowanipore Club is scheduled to be played under lights at the iconic Eden Gardens from this Saturday to Tuesday. Former Indian skipper and Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) President Sourav Ganguly is the man behind the fixture which could serve as reconnaissance for hosting the historic pink-ball Test.
Speaking to PTI, Shami enthused, “The only change is the color (of the ball). Obviously, it will be a new challenge. But, as the experts are saying it's the future and we have to adapt quickly.”
Expressing his eagerness on the landmark occasion, the right-arm pacer added, “Have to see how the pitch behaves initially. The ball will swing under lights and will make sure it's not heavily in favor of the batsmen. It will be an even contest between the bat and ball.”
Looking ahead to the Duleep Trophy which would also be held under floodlights, Shami affirmed, “It will give me some much-needed match practice ahead of the Duleep Trophy. I'm looking forward to it.”
The 26-year old’s team-mate Saha played down the visibility concerns and revealed that his preparations would remain the same. Meanwhile, Mohun Bagan coach Palash Nandy lauded Ganguly for taking the initiative.
Nandy felt, “This match will go into the history book. We could not have asked for more. All this could take place only because of Ganguly and his great ideas. We thank CAB for such a novel initiative.”
Though there is a threat of rain hanging over the game, a good crowd is expected to be part of the watershed moment which will also be broadcasted live on Star Sports from 14:00 local time.
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