MUMBAI: The "thick layer of grass" on the Wankhede pitch for the second Test between India and New Zealand has been shaved off in the build-up to the game. The draw in Kanpur in the first Test meant that both India and New Zealand had to be content with four points, something that clearly isn’t to the liking of the hosts, who want to maximise home conditions and grab the 12 World Test Championship points on offer.
The generous bit of grass, which was present till Monday evening, was shaved off, particularly from the good length spots at both ends. This was just in time because it rained heavily on Wednesday and the wicket had to be covered all day. Apparently, on Tuesday, the groundsmen were also seen roughing up the surface using a brush. This could enable India’s spinners to get dangerous, as the ball would then grip the wicket nicely.
The preparation of the wicket is being supervised by BCCI’s chief curator Ashish Bhowmick, with Mumbai Cricket Association curator Ramesh Mhamunkar and Brabourne Stadium curator Prakash Adhav assisting him.
While some moisture is likely to seep in it due to the incessant rain, the wicket has not been watered since Monday. Traditionally, the Wankhede wicket has always provided good bounce and carry, with the fast bowlers getting nice purchase.
