Prabir Mukherjee orders ex-England capt Michael Atherton off the pitch

On Monday morning, two days ahead of the third Test at the Eden Gardens, England practice began with a bit of drama. As per Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) rules, the ground is off-limits to the Indian journalists during practice. The British ones, however, have the access to cross the fencing.

Former England captain Michael Atherton, a television commentator now, came with the English press contingent and after a while began his long walk towards the pitch.

Curator Prabir Mukherjee noticed Atherton late and rushed to him. The two had an animated conversation during which the 83-year-old curator was seen pointing his fingers towards the boundary rope. He explained what passed between the two later.

"I told him (Atherton) to stay clear of the ground. As per laws, only the players and match officials are allowed inside the ground. I just explained the law to him. I don't care who he is or what he thought. I just did my duty," Mukherjee said.

Denied access to the much spoken about wicket at the Eden Gardens, the former England captain returned to join the British media group. He, however, hasn't lodged any complaint with the state association.

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