The highly anticipated IPL 2023 Final was delayed by a day in Ahmedabad due to persistent rain. Even on the reserve day, the match faced further interruptions when late-night showers halted play for nearly two hours. As a result, Chennai Super Kings’ run-chase was reduced to 15 overs. Despite the challenging conditions and a target of 171 runs, CSK emerged victorious, raising concerns about the conditions at the Narendra Modi Stadium.
In light of the upcoming ODI World Cup Final scheduled to be held at the same stadium, Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) president Snehasish Ganguly suggested that the Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA) authorities can learn from Eden Gardens’ fully covered rain management system.
Snehasish explained that the delay was caused by the wet side wickets at the new stadium and expressed confidence that the issue would be resolved in due course. He emphasized the effectiveness of having a full ground cover, as implemented at Eden Gardens, which would prevent similar issues in the future.
Eden Gardens is currently the only stadium in India with a full cover, introduced during IPL 2008 when Snehasish served as the assistant secretary. He described it as a learning process and expressed belief that the GCA would implement a similar system before the World Cup. The GCA already possesses a sand-based ground and a well-functioning drainage system.
Snehasish noted that the side wickets, lacking sand, can become problematic if rain seeps through. However, employing a full cover would solve this issue, requiring additional personnel to manage it. The cost of implementing a full cover was estimated at around ₹80 lakh, and Snehasish suggested that it could be in place within two months if the decision is made, providing double protection.
Under Sourav Ganguly’s leadership as the CAB head, covers were imported from England for Eden Gardens, ensuring that the stadium has not witnessed any washouts since then.
