The Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) has sent a strongly worded letter to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), urging them to bar commentators HarshaBhogle and Simon Doull from commentating on any IPL matches at Eden Gardens during the ongoing IPL 2025 season. This move comes after both Bhogle and Doull publicly criticized the Eden Gardens pitch curator, Sujan Mukherjee, and suggested that the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) franchise should consider relocating if their demands for spin-friendly pitches continue to be ignored.

Simon Doull had controversially stated that if the curator does not cater to the home team’s needs, KKR should find a new home ground. HarshaBhogle echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of home advantage and the need for pitches that support the home team’s strengths. CAB, however, has sided with Mukherjee, asserting that he has adhered strictly to BCCI guidelines, which prohibit franchises from dictating pitch conditions.

The CAB’s letter reflects their displeasure over the comments, viewing them as unfair to the curator who is accountable to the BCCI and tasked with preparing a balanced, sporting wicket. While the BCCI has yet to officially respond, it is reported that neither Bhogle nor Doull will be allowed to commentate at Eden Gardens for the upcoming KKR vs Gujarat Titans match. The controversy has added another layer of tension as Eden Gardens is also set to host the IPL 2025 final on May 25.