The playing surface in New York has become a significant talking point in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024. The recent match between Sri Lanka and South Africa highlighted these concerns, as both teams faced considerable difficulties while batting. Sri Lanka, led by Wanindu Hasaranga, managed to score only 77 runs, marking their lowest-ever total in T20 cricket.
In response, South Africa chased down the target in 16.2 overs, underlining the challenging nature of the pitch. Former cricketer Kevin Pietersen expressed his disappointment with the state of the pitch, predicting that it might impact the much-anticipated India-Pakistan match on June 9.
Kevin Pietersen emphasized the need for immediate attention to the playing surface, citing injuries sustained by players during the Sri Lanka-South Africa match as a major concern. Pietersen called for rigorous efforts from the organizers to ensure that the pitch is in top condition for the high-stakes game.
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“Hmmmm, that wicket in NYC needs some attention before the big game. I’d also suggest having seen a few players that tried to slide and jarred their knees, that all players exercise caution. I’m sure everyone is working extremely hard to make sure it’s perfect for IND vs PAK!” Kevin Pietersen tweeted.
Hmmmm, that wicket in NYC needs some attention before the big game.
I’d also suggest having seen a few players that tried to slide and jarred their knees, that all players exercise caution.
I’m sure everyone is working extremely hard to make sure it’s perfect for IND vs PAK! 🙏🏽— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) June 4, 2024
Before the high-profile clash on June 9, India will face Ireland in New York on June 5. This match will give the Indian team an opportunity to familiarize themselves with the conditions, potentially giving them a significant advantage. Additionally, three more matches are scheduled to be played at the stadium before the India-Pakistan encounter, which should provide further insights into how the pitch will behave.
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Cricketer-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra offered a more optimistic view, suggesting that the conditions in New York will improve over time. He noted that drop-in pitches typically require several matches to settle and become more conducive to good batting.
“Lively pitch at New York. That’s the thing with the drop-in surfaces. Extra layer of grass to begin with. Takes time to settle down. Need cricket to be played on the square for it to become what they end up becoming – good pitches to bat,” Aakash Chopra tweeted.
Lively pitch at New York.
That’s the thing with the drop-in surfaces. Extra layer of grass to begin with. Takes time to settle down. Need cricket to be played on the square for it to become what they end up becoming—good pitches to bat. #T20WorldCup
— Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) June 3, 2024
As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on the organizers’ efforts to address the pitch issues and ensure a fair and exciting contest for the upcoming matches.
