The pitch used in the second T20I between India and New Zealand was criticized by many for its slow nature and assistance. Batting became almost impossible for both teams, and a target of 100 proved challenging in the shortest format.
Former India player and the current mentor of Lucknow Super Giants, Gautam Gambhir, joked that his team’s opener Quinton de Kock would refuse to play in the Indian Premier League 2023 if made to bat on Lucknow’s pitch.
Mohammad Kaif, Jatin Sapru, and Gambhir discussed the spin combination of LSG for the upcoming season.
Kaif said that Amit Mishra and Ravi Bishnoi would love to bowl on a track like that, but the management should also consider KL Rahul and De Kock.
Taking note of Kaif’s remark, Gautam said the South Africa wicket-keeper would not play if he had to bat on a tough track for batting.
“He will not come to the Indian Premier League in 2023 if such a track is prepared in Lucknow for the home games of LSK,” he said on Star Sports.
Meanwhile, India won the second contest by 6 wickets to level the series 1-1.