India vs Sri Lanka: Mohali pitch similar to Dharamsala, but will grass be shaved?

With the Indian cricket team shocked on a green track in Dharamsala and down 1-0 in the three-match series, the focus is on the pitch at the Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) Stadium in Mohali where the second ODI will be played.

The prevailing conditions— chill and light rain, which are likely to continue on Tuesday also—clearly indicate that the batsmen will face a tough time as the ball is likely to swing and seam; but conditions apply.

PCA has traditionally favoured fast bowlers, providing them with ample bounce and movement to work with both on and off the pitch.

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With India trailing and looking for a series equalising win, the big question is whether the grass will remain or be shaved off.

Former India player Bhupinder Singh Sr, who has represented Punjab and also coached them, predicts a bald pitch.

“With India down, it’s likely that the last speck of grass will be shaved off. Otherwise, if the grass is left on it, the conditions will be similar to those in Dharamsala. The conditions and weather all help bounce, seam and swing, but I think you are likely to see a bald pitch by December 13,” said Bhupinder, who has plenty of experience at Mohali.

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Unlike the Sri Lankan cricket team, who are stranded in Dharamsala, the Indian team arrived here on time and players including Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik, Washington Sundar along with batting coach Sanjay Bangar had first look at the conditions with a session at PCA.

Bhupinder further added that white ball will help seamers for the first 10-12 overs. “But once the shine goes, the ball is likely to come nicely onto the bat,” he said.