ICC rates Melbourne pitch unsatisfactory after Ashes Test

The ICC Match Referee has rated the Melbourne Cricket Ground pitch for the fourth Ashes Test as unsatisfactory, citing imbalance between bat and ball. England defeated Australia in two days, raising concerns over pitch quality ahead of future Boxing Day Tests

Hyderabad: The ICC Match Referee has rated the pitch for the fourth NRMA Insurance Ashes Test at the MCG as “unsatisfactory”.

Under the ICC’s four-tier pitch rating system, “unsatisfactory” is the third ranking and refers to a pitch that “does not allow an even contest between bat and ball by favouring the bowlers too much, with too many wicket-taking opportunities for either seam or spin”.

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The MCG pitch had received the highest “very good” rating for the past three Boxing Day Tests.

England beat Australia by four wickets in two days. Australia now leads the series 3-1.

James Allsopp, CA Chief of Cricket, said:
“We were disappointed for the fans holding tickets for days three and four, and also the millions of fans excited to watch the action in Australia and around the world, that the pitch did not provide the MCG’s customary balance between bat and ball.

“We appreciate the outstanding work the MCC staff have done over recent years producing excellent Test match pitches.

“We are confident they will deliver first-rate surfaces for next year’s NRMA Insurance Boxing Day Test against New Zealand and the hugely anticipated 150th Anniversary Test against England in March 2027.”