IT was not an ideal start to the MSSA Giles Shield inter-school cricket final at the Bombay Gymkhana yesterday. The wicket wasn't ready, which led to a delayed start of the all-important tie between Rizvi Springfield (Bandra) and Parle Tilak English medium (Vile Parle).

"We had given prior intimation to Bombay Gymkhana officials about the final but I don't know what the problem was," MSSA cricket secretary HS Bhor told MiD DAY.

"I have no idea why the wicket wasn't ready. I had met the officials on Saturday as well. I think there was some miscommunication between the curator and Bombay Gymkhana officials. This is the first time we have faced such a problem."

MR Singh, sports in-charge of Bombay Gymkhana, said: "The wicket was prepared, but there were some footmarks on it. And it was damp. The umpires were cautious because it is a four-day game and asked us to prepare another wicket. That is why it took so much time."

Vital four hours of the four-day game were wasted on Day One. Rizvi coach Raju Pathak was obviously livid at this. "Every session counts in big games. We have lost one full session, so anything can happen now," he said.

How will the lost time be compensated? "We cannot extend the day's play. Whatever time is lost is gone," said Bhor.

Rizvi were 52 for two at stumps.