The Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur is once again at the centre of attention as Bangladesh prepares to host the West Indies for a three-match ODI series. Known for its traditionally black-soil pitches, the stadium is drawing extra interest this time due to a notable change in the surface.
Usually made with black clay, Mirpur’s pitches have ranged from deep black to greyish in appearance. However, ahead of the series starting this weekend, a different kind of wicket has emerged. Two pitches have been prepared, both featuring a glossy top layer that shimmers under the sun. This new appearance, described by many as a “glossy wicket,” has caught the eye of coaches and players from both sides.
Although the pitch still uses black soil, the surface has a distinct finish. There is minimal grass on top, but the shine makes it look quite different from what is typically seen in Mirpur. Tony Hemming, Head of Turf Management at the Bangladesh Cricket Board, has worked with similar pitches in the past and is not surprised by the look. He suggested that this change could mark a shift away from Mirpur’s historically poor reputation for pitch quality, which has even led to demerit points on multiple occasions.
This potential change has sparked conversation among fans and experts. Mirpur’s pitch has long been criticised for lacking sporting balance. Compared to red soil wickets, black soil offers less bounce and pace. Balls often hold up after pitching, show low bounce and assist spin.
Interestingly, this time the pitch is not only dark but also shows greyish patches across the surface. According to a groundsman, the former curator used to mix cut grass into the pitch and follow it up with water and heavy rolling. Hemming has now changed that process, opting to use only water and a roller to prepare the pitch.
At the pre-match press conference, West Indies head coach Darren Sammy was asked about the surface. He said, “The captain hasn’t seen the pitch yet, but I have. I don’t know if I can describe it properly, but I’ve never seen anything quite like it. We all know the challenges of playing in the subcontinent, especially for batters. I think the boys will benefit from coming straight from India. They are used to conditions like this or something close.”
Bangladesh head coach Phil Simmons offered a more light-hearted response when asked the same question. “You probably know more about the Mirpur pitch than I do. Maybe you can tell me what it’s like. To me, it just looks like a typical Mirpur wicket. Usually, there’s turn here, which works well for us,” he said with a smile.
As the series approaches, attention remains firmly on the surface. Whether the changes will produce a better contest remains to be seen on match day.
