In view of the bio-bubble protocols in place, cricketers, for the first time ever, will not be entering through the main gate before an international game at Eden Gardens.

Instead, Gate No.17, where the Cricket Association of Bengal’s refurbished indoor facilities are housed, will serve as the entrance for the

India and New Zealand players for Sunday’s third and final T20I, to be played at the iconic venue. Gate No.17 is on the opposite of the Mohun Bagan ground.

According to old-timers at the CAB and those who have been visiting the Eden for decades, players have always entered the stadium through its main entrance, otherwise known as the Club House gate. “Previously, the NCC (National Cricket Club) gate used to be the entrance for players.

“Ever since the Club House gate came into use, players have been entering the ground through that only. But because of the pandemic-induced circumstances, this change had to be effected,” Bengal’s Ranji Trophy-winning captain and national selector Sambaran Banerjee said.

The pre-match atmosphere at the Eden has been just like it used to be in the pre-Covid days. Despite the sincere efforts of the CAB officials to make sure the Covid-19 protocols are followed, some inside the premises were spotted moving around without masks.

However, when it comes to the players, the association is trying its best to maintain a strict bio-bubble.

“They will enter through Gate No.17 and then head straight to their respective dressing rooms. The entire area is within the bubble with no outsiders allowed,” CAB president Avishek Dalmiya said. “Even the commentators for the game will be taken through the green corridor created in that region,” Avishek added. Soon after landing on Saturday afternoon, India head coach Rahul Dravid, bowling coach Paras Mhambrey and batting coach Vikram Rathour paid a visit to the Eden to have a look at the pitch and the outfield.

On the other hand, the New Zealanders, with the series already lost, spent some time relaxing at the team hotel. “A little while after reaching the hotel, they stepped out to the breakfast lounge and there, (pacer) Trent Boult started playing the guitar, something he loves doing.

“(Left-arm spinner) Mitchell Santner too had a nice time playing the violin. They seem to be pretty happy with all the arrangements made,” New Zealand’s local manager Moin Moksud said.

Some of the players, as the local manager said, also ordered some Ritu Kumar-designed clothes from a mall at Park Circus.