India are all set to take on World Test Championship (WTC) winners South Africa in a two-match Test series starting on Friday, November 14 at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. The series holds huge significance for both sides as India look to restore their domestic dominance against top teams while South Africa seek their first Test win in India since 2010.
Before the start of the series, there was speculation about the pitch on offer and the weather conditions for the first Test. Cricket Association of Bengal president Sourav Ganguly confirmed that the Indian team management did not ask for a change in order for the opening match against South Africa.
The venue has hosted two Ranji Trophy matches this season, with the pitch playing on the slower side and providing limited help to the pacers. In Bengal’s recent match against Uttarakhand, the seamers struggled initially before Mohammed Shami produced a match-changing spell.
Traditionally, Eden Gardens have rarely produced rank-and-file turners, usually offering early movement for bowlers before settling on a batting surface.Eden Gardens Playground Curator Sujan Mukherjee he also revealed that it will be a sports wicket for the first test with equal help for the batsman and bowler.
“It will be a good sporting wicket with help to both batsmen and bowlers. Help will be offered to the spinners as well and that may happen soon,” said Sujan Mukherjee.
Regarding the weather conditions, the weather will be clear throughout the Test match. There is a slight 10 percent chance of rain on Day 3, but no disruption is likely. All in all, good conditions will be on offer for all five days and good pitches will ensure that fans witness an action-packed five-day test match.
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Issued by:
Rishabh Beniwal
Published on:
November 13, 2025
