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Don't blame us for low-scoring WC pitches, says ICC

July 11, 2019 00:00:00


The International Cricket Council (ICC) has denied responsibility for the low-scoring pitches at this World Cup after yet another turgid surface was produced for the first semi-final between India and New Zealand in Manchester, reports https://www.theguardian.com/sport.

New Zealand found scoring tough on a slow, two-paced track after winning the toss, making 211 for five in 46.1 overs before rain forced this contest into a reserve day.

It followed the theme of a tournament where low scores have been the norm on markedly different pitches from those seen in ODI cricket in England over recent years.

That has led to accusations that the ICC has instructed local groundsmen to prepare slower surfaces than normal. But world cricket's governing body said: "Essentially the venues are responsible for the pitch preparation which is done with oversight and guidance from the ICC and our independent pitch consultant.

"The guidance we give any host of an ICC event is to prepare the best possible pitches for the conditions in that country - so in this case the best possible ODI pitch for typical English conditions and we would also look for even bounce and good carry. The ICC does not instruct groundsmen to prepare pitches in a certain way to advantage, or disadvantage, any team."


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