New Delhi: Renowned cricket commentators Harsha Bhogle and Simon Doull have reportedly been excluded from the commentary panel for Kolkata Knight Riders’ (KKR) home matches at Eden Gardens, following their public criticism of the pitch conditions in Kolkata.
The controversy stems from comments made by the duo regarding the lack of spin-friendly surfaces at Eden Gardens this IPL season. Both Bhogle and Doull supported KKR’s captain and coach, who had expressed frustration over not receiving pitches suited to their spin-heavy bowling attack. The criticism didn’t sit well with the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB), which is said to have written to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) requesting that the two commentators not be assigned for future KKR home fixtures.
A CAB official reportedly told PTI, “Bhogle and Doull are no longer part of the IPL commentary team for KKR’s home matches. However, this could change when Eden Gardens hosts the Qualifier 2 and the Final on May 23 and 25.”
Their absence was noted during KKR’s recent clash against Gujarat Titans, fueling speculation about their removal from the panel.
Simon Doull had previously criticized the situation, suggesting KKR consider relocating if their home ground didn’t accommodate the team’s needs. “If the curator isn’t listening to what the home team wants—they’re paying the stadium fees, they’re paying for everything. If he’s not listening, then move the franchise away,” Doull said. “His job isn’t to give opinions about the game. That’s not what he’s paid for.”
Harsha Bhogle echoed Doull’s sentiments, saying, “If they are playing at home, they should get the kind of tracks that suit their bowlers.”
However, CAB defended curator Sujan Mukherjee, stating that he was simply following BCCI guidelines, which prevent franchises from dictating pitch preparation. According to the rules, pitch curators are expected to maintain neutrality and prepare balanced surfaces.
KKR had reportedly requested a more spin-friendly pitch to favor bowlers like Sunil Narine, Varun Chakravarthy, and Moeen Ali, but their appeal was not entertained.
While the matter continues to stir debate, it remains to be seen if Bhogle and Doull will return to commentary duties for matches hosted at Eden Gardens later in the tournament.
