The contentious cricket pitch at Eden Gardens in Kolkata, where South Africa defeated India inside three days in November, has been officially rated “satisfactory” by the International Cricket Council (ICC), according to match referee Richie Richardson. The decision means the venue will escape any sanctions over the surface that attracted strong criticism during and after the match.
The first Test of the three-match series between India and South Africa, played from November 14 to 16, 2025, concluded inside three days with South Africa securing a 30-run victory to take a 1-0 lead. The pitch later came under fire for its uneven bounce and sharp turn.
Meanwhile, South Africa’s bowlers, including off-spinner Simon Harmer and seamer Marco Jansen, exploited the conditions brilliantly. India’s batting lineup struggled as they were dismissed for 93 in their second innings while chasing a target of 124.