Unhappy with the Chepauk pitch: Vasu

After a fruitful first session on the opening day where three wickets fell, Tamil Nadu had to toil hard to end Mumbai’s innings in the Ranji Trophy 2019-20 contest here. The visiting side, coming on the back of successive defeats, posted a mammoth first innings total of 488 before being bowled out.

“I am extremely unhappy with the wicket the curator has prepared. At the end of the day, we have to have good surfaces. I don’t mind if it is a green top or a turner. When there is something for the bowlers, it will be good,” Vasu told reporters after a tough second day for Tamil Nadu.

The wicket was relaid recently and prior to this match had hosted only one game – the India vs West Indies ODI in December last year. Despite venting his frustration on the strip, Vasu agreed his side didn’t bowl well enough with the ball. “As long as the bowlers learn from it, I am fine. Initially, the wicket was damp and that is why it turned a bit. It is a very good batting track. It is not great for cricket but we will have to grind it out,” he added.

In reply to Mumbai’s majestic score, Tamil Nadu was 66 without loss at stumps on Day Two. Vasu said the host is aiming to get the first innings lead. “We are only looking at that. I think we should be able to get the runs.” Wicketkeeper-batsman Dinesh Karthik left the field due to back spasm close to lunch and was replaced by Narayan Jagadeesan behind the wickets.

Asked if Karthik will be fine to bat when his time comes, Vasu responded, “He should be OK. He has had enough rest.”