Eden Gardens in Kolkata is one of the most iconic cricket grounds in the world — often referred to as the “Mecca of Indian Cricket.” Established in 1864, this historic venue has witnessed countless legendary matches, from World Cup finals to IPL thrillers. The Eden Gardens pitch report has always been a subject of immense curiosity among cricket fans and analysts. Known for its large boundaries and enthusiastic crowd, the stadium provides a unique challenge for both batsmen and bowlers.
In this detailed Eden Gardens Kolkata pitch report, we will explore the pitch characteristics, weather conditions, stats, records, and whether the pitch favors batting or bowling.
Eden Gardens Stadium Overview
| Particulars | Details |
| Stadium Name | Eden Gardens |
| City | Kolkata, West Bengal |
| Established | 1864 |
| Seating Capacity | 68,000+ |
| Home Teams | Indian Cricket Team, Bengal, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) |
| End Names | High Court End, Pavilion End |
| Floodlights Installed | Yes |
| First International Match | 1934 (Test), 1987 (ODI), 2011 (T20I) |
| Curator | Sujan Mukherjee |
| Pitch Type | Balanced surface with spin assistance in later overs |
Eden Gardens Pitch Report
The Eden Gardens pitch report suggests that the surface is typically made of black soil mixed with a layer of clay, offering a fine balance between bat and ball. Traditionally, the pitch tends to assist fast bowlers early on due to slight moisture, but as the match progresses, it gradually becomes a paradise for spinners.
In T20s and ODIs, the pitch generally offers true bounce, which allows stroke play. However, in Tests, the pitch can deteriorate on the fourth and fifth days, providing significant turn for spinners.
During IPL seasons, the Kolkata pitch report has often shown that scores above 180 are quite common, but seamers who use cutters and slower balls effectively have also found success.
Eden Gardens Pitch Report – Batting or Bowling Friendly?
The big question: Is the Eden Gardens pitch batting or bowling friendly? The answer lies in the format of the game.
- In Test matches: The surface initially supports seamers with movement off the seam, but as days pass, spinners come into play. Batting becomes easier on Day 2 and 3, but challenging afterward.
- In ODIs: It is a balanced pitch. The first few overs offer swing, but later on, batsmen can dominate once they adjust.
- In T20s (especially IPL): The pitch slightly favors batting due to true bounce, shorter boundaries on one side, and the dew factor at night.
Overall, the Eden Gardens batting or bowling pitch can be described as a balanced surface — offering assistance to both departments depending on conditions and skill execution.
Eden Gardens Weather Conditions
Weather plays a crucial role in Kolkata matches. The city’s humidity level often ranges between 65–80%, which helps pacers generate reverse swing and spinners gain grip. The dew factor is significant during night games, especially in IPL matches, making it harder for bowlers to grip the ball.
- Average Temperature: 24°C – 33°C
- Average Humidity: High, around 70–80%
- Rain Probability: Moderate during monsoon (June–September)
- Dew Factor: Strong during evening matches
Thus, captains winning the toss in limited-overs cricket often prefer bowling first at Eden Gardens.
Eden Gardens Stats and Records
Test Matches
| Total Matches | 42 |
| Matches Won by Batting First | 12 |
| Matches Won by Bowling First | 10 |
| Average First Innings Score | 320 |
| Average Fourth Innings Score | 160 |
| Best Bowling Figures | 7/49 (Harbhajan Singh vs Australia, 2001) |
ODI Matches
| Total Matches | 33 |
| Matches Won by Batting First | 20 |
| Matches Won by Bowling First | 13 |
| Average First Innings Score | 265 |
| Highest Total | 404/5 (India vs Sri Lanka, 2014) |
| Lowest Total | 63 (India vs Sri Lanka, 2009) |
T20 Matches
| Total Matches | 13 |
| Matches Won by Batting First | 7 |
| Matches Won by Bowling First | 6 |
| Average First Innings Score | 165 |
| Highest Total | 201/5 (Pakistan vs Bangladesh, 2016) |
Eden Gardens IPL Pitch Report
The Eden Gardens Kolkata pitch report during IPL seasons shows a high-scoring trend. Being the home ground of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), it has hosted many thrilling contests.
In recent seasons, Eden Gardens has become a batting-friendly pitch, especially under lights. The black soil surface ensures good bounce, and dew in the second innings reduces turn. However, bowlers who rely on variations like knuckleballs and slower deliveries often succeed.
Average Scores in IPL at Eden Gardens
- 1st Innings Average Score: 180
- 2nd Innings Average Score: 165
- Highest IPL Total: 232/2 by KKR vs MI
- Best Bowling Spell: Sunil Narine – 5/19
The kolkata pitch report indicates that chasing teams often find it easier due to dew and shorter boundaries on one side.
Eden Gardens Boundary Dimensions
| Direction | Distance (approx) |
| Straight | 70 meters |
| Square | 65 meters |
| Fine Leg | 60 meters |
| Cover | 68 meters |
These short boundaries, combined with fast outfield, make Eden Gardens an excellent venue for stroke players.
Pitch Behaviour Over the Years
Before 2015:
The pitch was traditionally slow, assisting spinners and making batting tough in the later stages.
After 2015 Renovation:
Post-renovation for the 2016 T20 World Cup, the pitch was relaid with black soil, providing better bounce and pace. It became more balanced, offering fair contest between bat and ball.
Current Trend (2024–2025):
The surface is more batting-friendly in white-ball cricket, while Tests still see assistance for both pacers and spinners.
Eden Gardens Upcoming Matches 2025
| Date | Match | Format | Time (IST) |
| 14 Nov 2025 | India vs South Africa – 1st Test | Test | 09:30 AM |
Tips for Fantasy Players
- Pick top-order batsmen when teams bat first — powerplay overs yield big runs.
- Spinners become effective in middle overs as pitch slows down slightly.
- In day-night games, choose pacers with swing ability in the first innings and wrist-spinners for the second innings.
- Dew factor favors chasing teams — select more batsmen from the side batting second.
Conclusion
The Eden Gardens Kolkata pitch report highlights why this historic ground remains one of the most iconic venues in world cricket. Known for its balanced surface, the pitch offers assistance to both batsmen and bowlers, depending on match conditions and team strategies. In the early overs, seamers get some movement, while spinners find grip and turn as the game progresses. Batting becomes easier under lights in limited-overs games due to consistent bounce and shorter boundaries.
Over the years, Eden Gardens has hosted countless memorable encounters, from high-scoring thrillers to spin-dominated battles. With upcoming matches like India vs South Africa Test 2025, fans can expect another exciting chapter in Kolkata’s cricket legacy. Whether you’re analyzing its batting-friendly nature or debating its spin support, one thing is certain — Eden Gardens continues to embody the true spirit and unpredictability of Indian cricket.
FAQs
1. What is the nature of the Eden Gardens pitch?
The Eden Gardens pitch report shows it’s a balanced surface with initial movement for pacers and spin assistance later.
2. Is Eden Gardens a batting pitch?
Yes, in white-ball cricket, it favors batsmen, especially under lights.
3. Does Eden Gardens support spin or pace more?
It supports both — seamers early on, spinners later in the game.
4. What is the average T20 score at Eden Gardens?
The average first innings score in T20s is around 165–175.
5. How big is Eden Gardens stadium?
It has a seating capacity of over 68,000 and is India’s second-largest stadium.
6. What are the end names at Eden Gardens?
High Court End and Pavilion End.
7. What is the highest total recorded at Eden Gardens?
404/5 by India vs Sri Lanka in 2014 (ODI).
8. Is Eden Gardens batting or bowling pitch in IPL 2025?
It’s generally batting-friendly, but bowlers with variations can still make an impact.
Related Blog: Arun Jaitley Stadium Pitch Report
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