Kolkata's iconic Eden Gardens pitch, used for the first Test between India and South Africa in November, has received a "satisfactory" rating from the International Cricket Council (ICC). This decision by match referee Richie Richardson means the venue avoids any demerit points or sanctions, despite widespread criticism after the match ended within three days. South Africa won the low-scoring contest by 30 runs, taking a 1-0 lead in the series.^{[1][2][3][4][5]} ### Pitch Drew Intense Scrutiny The Eden Gardens surface came under heavy fire from experts and former players due to its sharp turn, inconsistent bounce, and rapid conclusion of the match. The game, played in November, saw 26 wickets fall in the first two days alone. Neither team managed to cross 200 runs in any innings, highlighting the challenging conditions for batters. South Africa's captain, Temba Bavuma, was the only player to score a half-century in the entire match, making an unbeaten 55 off 136 balls.^{[1][6][7][8][4][9]} India's head coach, Gautam Gambhir, defended the pitch, stating it was "exactly the pitch we were looking for."^[3][5] However, batting coach Sitanshu Kotak later contradicted this, suggesting Gambhir's remarks were aimed at shielding the curator.^[2][5] India was bowled out for just 93 runs in their second innings while chasing a modest target of 124. This marked India's first Test loss at Eden Gardens in 13 years.^[7][3] ### ICC Rating System and Context Under the ICC's pitch rating system, "satisfactory" is the second-highest grade, falling between "very good" and "unsatisfactory." The lowest possible rating is "unfit."^[7][3] This rating ensures Eden Gardens avoids formal reprimand, unlike the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) pitch, which received an "unsatisfactory" rating and a demerit point after its Boxing Day Ashes Test concluded in just two days.^[1][7][8][4] The MCG pitch was deemed to favor bowlers excessively, with 36 wickets falling to pacers and no fifties scored across four innings.^[7][8] The ICC's decision on the Kolkata pitch has sparked debate about pitch standards in international cricket. While competitive wickets are acceptable, the balance between bat and ball remains a key factor in these assessments. The second Test pitch in Guwahati, also part of the India-South Africa series, received a "very good" rating from Richie Richardson.^[6][8][9] South Africa ultimately secured a 2-0 series whitewash over India.^[6][8][4][9] The "satisfactory" verdict for Eden Gardens brings relief to the Cricket Association of Bengal and Indian cricket officials. It underscores that challenging wickets can still meet ICC standards, provided they offer a fair contest. India will now focus on upcoming home fixtures in 2026 and further refine its approach to pitch preparation.^[2]

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