Markram: 'Not a slap in the face, but it feels like it'

South Africa's captain Aiden Markram expressed his disappointment regarding the pitch conditions at Eden Gardens ahead of the first semi-final in the ICC Cricket World Cup. Although he anticipated a more batter-friendly surface, the pitch reportedly presented challenges that left players feeling disadvantaged. Markram's comments reflect a broader concern among teams regarding pitch preparation and its impact on match outcomes. As the semi-final approached, both teams were keenly aware of how crucial the playing surface would be in determining their chances of advancing to the final. Markram's remarks highlight the ongoing dialogue around pitch conditions in cricket, particularly in high-stakes matches where every run counts. The South African team is now left to adapt to the situation and strategize accordingly, hoping to overcome the challenges posed by the pitch as they aim for a place in the World Cup final.