Kolkata Sep 20 (IANS) Australian captain Steve Smith on Wednesday said the grass coverage on the Eden Gardens wicket is more than he has seen in India.
Australia trailing 0-1 in the five-match series will take on India in the second One-Day International (ODI) here on Thursday.
The Eden pitch was under covers for at least 48 hours due to incessant rains. The covers were removed for a while on Wednesday only to be put back again as the tourists were forced to train indoors for a second day in a row.
Asked about the 22-yard strip Smith who had a look at it on Wednesday morning said: "Little bit of grass on it. Probably more than I ve seen in India for a while."
Smith said he would take a call on the playing XI only after having a look at the wicket on Thursday.
"Looks alright few cracks on the wicket but I think don t think they will play a big part. Looks the wicket s been used somewhere I don t know in what game. I will have another look tomorrow see what the weather is doing see if there is any change to the wicket in the morning they might cut it (grass) I don t know and then take a call on the team " he said.
Smith felt not being able to practice outdoors since coming here has not been a problem.
"I don t think it will have any impact. Guys have worked hard since we have been in India and we had a game not that long ago. So guys are in a fine space. It s been about topping it up indoors and getting a few things right there. No excuses. We are ready to go tomorrow " Smith said.
--IANS
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