The Big Bash League witnessed an unprecedented event on Sunday, 10th December 2023, when the match between the Melbourne Renegades and Perth Scorchers was abandoned due to a dangerous pitch at the GMHBA Stadium in Perth. Concerns over the wicket had surfaced before the game, fueled by heavy overnight rain in Geelong that seeped under the covers and compromised the playing surface.
Despite the initial worries, the toss proceeded as scheduled, with Renegades captain Nic Maddinson choosing to field. However, the Scorchers’ batters faced immediate difficulties as the unpredictable bounce proved challenging, especially for Australian player Aaron Hardie who struggled with the ball’s movement.
The turning point arrived in the seventh over when a Will Sutherland delivery exhibited significant deviation, striking Scorcher’s player Inglis in the groin. Inglis, visibly frustrated, expressed his disapproval towards the umpires after nearly edging another delivery and top-edging a subsequent ball.
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With the Scorchers at a precarious 2-30 after just 6.5 overs, the umpires, Ben Treloar and Simon Lightbody, called for a pitch inspection. After careful assessment, they deemed the playing surface unfit for further play and abandoned the match.
Here’s the delivery that prompted the discussions.
Quinton de Kock’s reaction 🫢 #BBL13 pic.twitter.com/1Tbq5YRjnq
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) December 10, 2023
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This unprecedented decision marked the first time in BBL history that a match was called off due to safety concerns about the pitch. Former Australian captain Aaron Finch provided further context, stating that the ball was “taking big divots out of the wicket … gripping the seam and just bouncing ridiculously.”
While this abandonment created disappointment for both teams and fans, player safety remained paramount. The incident has sparked questions and investigations, with Cricket Australia launching a comprehensive review to understand the factors that contributed to the unsafe pitch conditions.
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The BBL season continues, though the Renegades remain without a win after their narrow 8-run loss in their opening game. The Scorchers, on the other hand, have yet to register their first points of the season. As the league progresses, player safety will undoubtedly be at the forefront of everyone’s mind, and the implications of this incident will likely shape future BBL regulations and procedures.
