Move the Franchise Away: Former New Zealand Cricketer’s Bold Advice to KKR Amid Pitch Controversy in IPL 2025
The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), the defending IPL champions, had a mixed start to the 2025 season. After suffering a seven-wicket defeat against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the season opener at Eden Gardens, KKR made a strong comeback with an eight-wicket victory over the Rajasthan Royals at Barsapara Stadium, Guwahati.
Pitch Controversy at Eden Gardens
Since the first match, discussions have surfaced regarding pitch curator Sujan Mukherjee, who allegedly refused to provide KKR with a pitch that suited their spin-heavy bowling attack.
Reports suggest that KKR skipper Ajinkya Rahane had requested a spin-friendly track, but Mukherjee dismissed the request, reportedly stating, “The pitch will not change as long as I’m here.”
Simon Doull’s Bold Suggestion
Former New Zealand pacer and cricket analyst Simon Doull weighed in on the controversy, suggesting that KKR should consider relocating the franchise if their home ground does not support their team’s needs. Doull was highly critical of the curator, arguing that deciding pitch conditions is not his responsibility.
“If the curator is not listening to the home team’s requirements—even though they are paying for the stadium and contributing to the IPL—then just move the franchise elsewhere. His job is not to have an opinion on the game; that’s not what he’s paid for,” Doull told Cricbuzz.
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Harsha Bhogle’s Take on the Issue
Renowned commentator Harsha Bhogle also supported Doull’s perspective, emphasizing that home teams should have the advantage of pitches that suit their bowlers. He criticized the curator’s stance and highlighted the importance of home advantage in a league like the IPL.
“If a team is playing at home, they should have tracks that complement their bowlers. I saw what the KKR curator said, and if I were in the KKR camp, I would be extremely unhappy.
I’m not asking for an unplayable pitch, just a surface where my bowlers can win matches. Home advantage in a tournament like the IPL is absolutely legitimate—it makes winning away matches even more crucial,” Bhogle remarked.
