The International Cricket Council (ICC) once again rolled out a draconian pitch sanctioning regime. Currently under development, this new system will automatically determine the quality of cricket pitches and outfields after every Test match, one-day international and T20 international. This new Player Development program reflects the serious commitment to both player development and player welfare. By ensuring a more even playing field between bat and ball, it bolsters the game’s integrity.
One thing to remember is that pitches are really, really important in cricket. They’re the rectangular green strips of grass between each pair of wickets on the field. The outfield that surrounds the pitch is just as crucial. The ICC has even established objective standards for what makes a “very good” Test pitch. That pitch must offer excellent carry and minimal seam movement. It should provide even bounce and an average amount of turn during the opening phase of play. On top of that, it should show legitimate wear over the course of the match.
The injuries that result from bad pitch conditions can be catastrophic. An unfit pitch or outfield receives the harshest punishment of three demerit points. If a venue has at least six demerit points in a five-year window, it will receive a suspension. This effectively rules it out from hosting any international matches for 12 months. Additionally, accumulating 12 demerit points in that period leads to a two-year ban on hosting matches.
The ICC’s home-team-protecting pitch ratings were brought in to at least make sure the most egregiously manky pitches don’t give one team half the advantage. Former ICC match referee Matthew Page was taken aback by the decision. Just weeks ago during the fourth Ashes Test between Australia and England, officials rated the Melbourne Cricket Ground pitch “unsatisfactory” for prioritizing bowlers.
“I was in a state of shock” – Matthew Page
The quality of a pitch can have a huge and dramatic affect on the results of a game. Wickets that favor spin help teams that have skilled spin bowlers, and seam-friendly wickets help quicker bowlers. The ICC considers these differences in playing conditions when assessing pitches. Such an adjustment, for example, might mean that Test matches on subcontinental pitches should provide greater turn from day one.
Since simplifying the grading system in November 2023, no Test pitch has been graded unfit, indicating an improvement in pitch management across various venues. The ICC’s serious about keeping the standards high so players know they can come and compete in the best conditions.
The pitch rating system feeds straight back into short-term match results. It’s got longer-term implications too, for venues that would like to be considered for international cricket. A venue’s reputation rests largely on its capacity to address ICC standards. The impact of receiving a poor rating can put its chances of hosting future events at risk.
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