'A lot of construction going on at Newlands' - Ashwell Prince's bizarre theory after 23-wicket tumble on Day 1

The 23-wicket-engulfing Newlands pitch has come out as a huge mystery to all on Day 1 of South Africa vs India 2nd Test. The chaotic opening day in Cape Town saw a never before collapse of 6 for 0 run, leaving everyone scratching their heads in unison. 

An uncharacteristic behaviour of the pitch has analysts scrambling for answers as to how something like this could take place. Former South Africa player and batting consultant Ashwell Prince however could be the one with some answers. The former top-order batter has come up with an interesting theory that could explain the uncertainty of the Newlands pitch. 

"I remember playing in the UK a few years back, particularly at Nottingham, and the locals saying when construction took place it changed the characteristics of the ground", said Prince when quizzed on the behaviour of the pitch. "I don't know whether that has played a role here. There is a lot of construction going on here", Prince concluded. 

Prince was referring to a new building that has come up towards the Calvin Grove End that might be causing a shift in wind flow at the ground. Furthermore, the appointment of a new groundsperson, Braam Mong who went into this Test as his first for South Africa, could also be a major reason for the pitch behaving as it is. 

Prince backs decision to bat first

Earlier, Prince also backed the decision to bat first after winning the toss. "If we had arrived here today with overcast conditions, then perhaps (we would have bowled). But we arrived here with blue skies and even though there was a tinge on the surface, I don't think our batters are ever bothered when there is a bit of bounce on the pitch as long as the bounce is consistent and the movement is consistent," said Prince. 

Mohammed Siraj came out as the pick of the bunch on Day 1 taking six wickets in the first innings. Indian bowling unit bundled South Africa for a mere 55, their lowest against India in Test history. With the pitch behaving as it is, it would interesting to see how batters fare on Day 2.