There were reports that KKR management was upset following their star spinner, Varun Chakaravarthy, who had a poor performance on the Eden Gardens track, giving 43 runs for four overs to RCB. But Mukherjee remained adamant in his position that although the pitch provided some support to spinners, KKR was not able to make the most of it. In an interview with RevSportz, Mukherjee acknowledged that the criticism had been tough to take but he also highlighted that preparing an overly spin-friendly surface could have bitten Kolkata Knight Riders back.
Despite the furore, Mukherjee indicated his readiness to have discussions with the KKR management about pitch conditions after the team comes back from their match against Mumbai Indians.
Sujan Mukherjee Opens Up On Criticisms
“I do not follow social media. But when I heard what was being said about me, it felt bad. I have always tried to prepare a sporting track where there is something for everyone – batters, pacers and spinners,” he said.
Pitch Curator Highlights That Spin Was There In KKR vs RCB Match
“There was turn on offer in the pitch for the first match against RCB. And KKR have good pacers in their side like last season. All I am trying to say is if you watch the first match, there was some turn as well, especially the way Andre Russell got dismissed. I repeat that there was spin on offer for the first game against RCB. It is up to the players to utilise the conditions,” he added.
A Lot Of Help To Spinners On Eden Gardens Pitch
“There has been help for the spinners here. If we make rank turners, then it might backfire. Spectators come to the ground to watch a good entertaining cricket where there is help for everyone. There will be a bit more help for the spinners in the upcoming matches,” he said. “Everyone is welcome to me. Even the association is always willing to help. There has always been a good rapport between the state association (CAB) and the franchise. The KKR management also has a fair idea about the wicket and conditions on offer at Eden over the last few seasons since I took charge. Once the team returns from Mumbai, surely, we can have a discussion and I will see what best I can do.”
