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Kolkata: Another cracker of a match is expected as India and Australia clash at the Eden Gardens for the 2^nd ODI of the five match series on Thursday. The strip at the iconic venue is expected to be a sporting one, with plenty of runs on it. According to Cricket Association of Bengal curator Sujan Mukherjee, "The wicket will help both batsmen and bowlers. We are ready and conditions are ideal for one day cricket."

But the main concern for the local association is the weather gods as rain is forecasted on the day of the match. The ground was under covers the entire evening with heavy rains lashing the eastern metropolis on Monday afternoon. The CAB is not leaving any stone unturned so as to successfully stage the match. The President of the association, Sourav Ganguly himself had a look at the preparations. The former India captain was seen giving instructions to the grounds men. The CAB is planning to commemorate the second death anniversary of Late President Jagmohan Dalmiya on September 20. All the representatives of 121 units will have a photo session with the late CAB President. The association is also thinking about putting up a short audio visual on Late Jagmohan Dalmiya. The hosts have taken a 1-0 lead in the five match ODI series courtesy a 26 runs win (by virtue of D/L method) in a rain curtailed match. India posted a huge 281/7 after reeling at 11/3.  Hardik Pandya played a stunning knock of 83 runs, well supported by MS Dhoni (79 runs). But incessant rains during the break reduced the target to 164 runs from 21 overs. Chasing 164 runs Steve Smith’s side succumbed to 26 runs defeat, giving the hosts an early advantage in the series.