"As Simple As.."- Michael Vaughan Reacts To BCCI's 'Pitch Switch'

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has shared his views on the latest pitch controversy ahead of the huge semifinal clash between India and New Zealand in the ongoing ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023.

The match is scheduled to take place at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Wednesday, November 15. However, the buildup to the semifinal is marred by a significant controversy surrounding the pitch. According to reports, the BCCI has defied the rules to ensure that the match takes place on a used surface in order to suit India’s spinners.

As per the rules, the pitches for an ICC event are prepared under the supervision of the governing body’s consultant who agrees in advance with the home board which of the pitch will be used for each game. The BCCI, however, has been accused of flouting the rules and not consulting ICC consultant Andy Atkinson during the ongoing World Cup.

Michael Vaughan reacts to pitch controversy:

According to reports, the BCCI has decided to conduct the semifinal between India and New Zealand on the used No. 7 surface at the Wankhede Stadium instead of the unused No. 7 surface which was suggested by the ICC. The No. 7 surface was used for two league games in the course of the competition. And while the ICC wanted the semifinal to be played on a fresh surface, the BCCI has decided otherwise.

The Daily Mail has reported that Atkinson has been told there is an unspecified problem with pitch No. 7 – an opinion he is thought not to share. And with the controversy becoming a major talking point ahead of the semifinal, Michael Vaughan has also shared his opinion on the same.

Taking to X, England great that a World Cup semifinal should always be played on a fresh pitch, writing: “A World Cup semi should be played on a fresh pitch .. It’s as simple as that ..”

A World Cup semi should be played on a fresh pitch .. It’s as simple as that .. https://t.co/dRf6rlTO2O

— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) November 15, 2023

Meanwhile, the Indian team management has also reportedly asked the BCCI curators to shave off all the grass on the pitch to assist the spinners. Team India are eyeing their third World Cup title and first since 2011. They are still unbeaten in the ongoing competition and would be desperate to extend their winning run when they take on New Zealand.