The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has interfered after several IPL teams have expressed dissatisfaction with pitch conditions in IPL 2025, claiming that local curators have not tailored surfaces to suit the home team’s playing style. The absence of a clear home advantage has become a major talking point just two weeks into the Indian Premier League 2025 season.
Three IPL teams—Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), and Chennai Super Kings (CSK)—have raised concerns over the playing conditions in IPL 2025. LSG mentor Zaheer Khan recently criticized the pitch at Ekana Stadium, stating that it failed to offer any home advantage in Lucknow.
LSG, KKR, and CSK Favor Slow Turners Over Batting-Friendly Pitches
The controversy over the KKR pitch took a dramatic turn as Eden Gardens curator Sujan Mukherjee backtracked on his earlier claim of preparing the pitch his way. This response came after prominent commentators Harsha Bhogle and Simon Doull criticized him for not aligning with KKR’s preferences.
CSK head coach Stephen Fleming also hinted at frustration over pitch conditions in Chennai, stating that the franchise has no control over the Chepauk surface. Several teams believe home venues should cater to their strengths, with many preferring slow, turning tracks over pitches that favor big-hitting sides.
BCCI Dismisses Concerns Over Pitch Conditions in IPL 2025
The BCCI has dismissed concerns over pitch conditions in IPL 2025, stating that franchises should communicate their preferences well in advance rather than mid-season. The board has also added that the curator has the final say in pitch preparation, with no input from teams or players.
“The pitches have been good so far. Hence, they may be asking for pitches that have more help for bowlers. But there needs to be better communication between the franchise and the curators. It can’t happen within a week of the IPL season,” The Times of India quoted a BCCI source said.
“As far as Lucknow is concerned, the square needs to be relaid to alter the basic nature of the pitch, which is intrinsically slow in nature. According to BCCI guidelines, it needs to have a good grass cover to sustain itself through the tournament. Same goes for all other venues,” the source added.
The term “ground authority” refers to the state association in charge of maintaining the venue. This association is responsible for preparing the pitch for matches held at the stadium.
Delhi Capitals Unhappy with Pitch Conditions in Vizag for First Two Home Matches
The report also highlighted that the Delhi Capitals were dissatisfied with the pitch conditions for their first two home matches in Vizag.
According to BCCI guidelines, franchises and players have no authority over pitch preparation, as curators are responsible for ensuring a fair balance between seam and spin.
While teams cannot dictate pitch conditions, it is reasonable for them to expect surfaces that suit their strengths, especially since squads are carefully assembled with a strategy in mind.
Curators could consider accommodating the needs of franchises that have invested significant time and resources in building their squads.
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