The pitch used for the new Perth Stadium’s inaugural Test match, last week’s second Test of the four-match between Australia and India, has received the lowest possible pass mark from the ICC. It is understood match referee Ranjan Madugalle rated the pitch at the new Perth Stadium as ‘average’, which is the lowest pass mark provided by the ICC when they rate the pitch and outfield of Test grounds.
Earlier this year, the ICC introduced a disciplinary system in order to improve the standard of pitches around the world and can provide five ratings – very good, good, average, below average and poor – when rating Test venues. It is understood the Adelaide Oval pitch used in the first Domain Test received a ‘very good’ rating.
Madugalle gave the rating of ‘poor’ given to the MCG a year ago when Australia and England battled out a draw, while two of the past four Boxing Day Tests have also finished in a draw. MCG curator Matt Page has been working hard to inject some life into the Melbourne pitch and he had the covers on the pitch on Friday afternoon, with heavy showers hitting the area later in the day.
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It has been predicted that there will be more rainfall forecasted before both teams get their first look at the pitch, which will shape Mitch Marsh’s hopes of a recall, on Sunday. Madugalle was in charge of the first half of the four-Test series between Australia and India, locked at 1-1, but Andy Pycroft will be match referee at the MCG and SCG.
The Perth verdict is probably related to the uneven bounce that resulted in a couple of nasty blows to the players. Aaron Finch retired hurt after his right glove was struck by a Mohammed Shami delivery, although he was cleared of any serious damage and returned to the crease the following day. There were no public complaints from either camp and broader commentary about the Perth wicket was almost entirely positive.
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Talking about the same, Australian coach, Justin Langer said, “Anyone who says there’s anything wrong with that wicket, they must’ve been watching a different game.” The Indian skipper Virat Kohli noted before the match the pitch is “something we’re very excited about”.
Western Australian Cricket Association (WACA) chief Christina Matthews, speaking during the Test, described the pitch as “an outstanding success”.
