Ben Stokes Reacts to Unfamiliar Ranchi Pitch: 'Never Seen Anything Like It
- Posted on February 22, 2024
- Sports
- By Arijit Dutta
- 285 Views
Ben Stokes expressed surprise at the unusual appearance of the Ranchi pitch ahead of the India-England Test. He described it as "un-Indian" with dark, crumbly patches and cracks. The mystery deepens as players anticipate its impact on the game, including the potential role of Ravichandran Ashwin.
The
anticipation surrounding the pitch at the JSCA International Stadium
Complex in Ranchi intensifies as the fourth Test between India and England
approaches. With three evenly-matched decks in the series so far, expectations
are high for another intriguing surface in Ranchi.
Ben
Stokes, in particular, expressed bewilderment at the appearance of the Ranchi
wicket, describing it as unlike anything he's seen before in India. According
to him, one side of the pitch looked notably different, with a green and grassy
view from the changing rooms contrasting sharply with the dark, crumbly surface
of the field.
Stokes admitted to being unsure about what to expect from such an unfamiliar pitch, emphasizing the presence of numerous cracks and the distinct lack of familiarity with this type of surface. His sentiments were echoed by teammate Ollie Pope, who highlighted the significant roughness outside the "right-hander's off stump," suggesting potential challenges for batsmen.
Also Read: Venezuela: Over A Dozen Fatalities, Numerous Injuries In Illegal Gold Mine Collapse
The
unconventional nature of the Ranchi pitch has sparked intrigue and speculation
among players and pundits alike, with many questioning its potential impact on
the game. Speculation abounds regarding the role spinners, particularly India's
premier off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, might play on this unique surface.
As
the teams prepare to face off on this enigmatic pitch, all eyes will be on how
it behaves and influences the outcome of the crucial Test match between India
and England. The Ranchi Test promises to be a fascinating chapter in the
ongoing series, with the pitch serving as an unexpected protagonist in the
unfolding drama on the cricket field.