Grass on Eden wicket more than I’ve seen: Smith

Kolkata, Sep 20 (IANS) Australian captain Steve Smith on Wednesday said the grass coverage on the Eden Gardens wicket is more than he has seen in India.

Australia, trailing 0-1 in the five-match series, will take on India in the second One-Day International (ODI) here on Thursday.

The Eden pitch was under covers for at least 48 hours due to incessant rains. The covers were removed for a while on Wednesday only to be put back again as the tourists were forced to train indoors for a second day in a row.

Asked about the 22-yard strip, Smith, who had a look at it on Wednesday morning, said: "Little bit of grass on it. Probably more than I've seen in India for a while."

Smith said he would take a call on the playing XI only after having a look at the wicket on Thursday.

"Looks alright, few cracks on the wicket but I think don't think they will play a big part. Looks the wicket's been used somewhere, I don't know in what game. I will have another look tomorrow, see what the weather is doing, see if there is any change to the wicket in the morning they might cut it (grass) I don't know and then take a call on the team," he said.

Smith felt not being able to practice outdoors since coming here has not been a problem.

"I don't think it will have any impact. Guys have worked hard since we have been in India and we had a game not that long ago. So guys are in a fine space. It's been about topping it up indoors and getting a few things right there. No excuses. We are ready to go tomorrow," Smith said.