"Changes To Planned Pitch Rotations Are Common..." - ICC Responds To Pitch Controversy In Mumbai

The International Cricket Council (ICC) spokesperson addressed concerns about the pitch for the India-New Zealand semifinal. The spokesperson explained that alterations to pitch rotations are typical towards the end of a lengthy event and have occurred in the past.

Reports are circulating that the Indian team management has purportedly requested a “used” pitch for the World Cup semifinals, aiming to benefit their spinners. The alleged strategy is to give spinners an advantage in the crucial match of the ongoing World Cup.

No Reason To Believe The Pitch Won’t Play Well – ICC

The ICC spokesperson revealed that the pitch was made based on the venue curator’s recommendation, and the ICC’s independent pitch consultant was informed. He expressed confidence that the pitch would perform well during the game.

“Changes to planned pitch rotations are common towards the end of an event of this length, and has already happened a couple of times. This change was made on the recommendation of the venue curator in conjunction with our host. The ICC independent pitch consultant was apprised of the change and has no reason to believe the pitch won’t play well,” said ICC Spokesperson, as quoted by RevSportz.

The Rohit Sharma-led team is scheduled to take on the Kane Williamson-led side in a highly anticipated encounter at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Wednesday, November 15.

Team Had Asked For A Slow Pitch – Indian Express Report

Earlier, the Indian Express reported that the Indian team’s management communicated their preference for a slow track to the curator. An official from the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) verified that a message was indeed conveyed to prepare a slow pitch.

“It won’t be a turner but the team had asked for a slow pitch. It was the main reason we shaved off the grass,” a source said, as quoted by the Indian Express.

Rohit Sharma expressed confidence that the toss is not a decisive factor in determining the outcome of matches at the Wankhede.

“I have played a lot of cricket here. The last 4-5 games won’t tell me a lot about what Wankhede is. I certainly believe that toss is not the factor,” Rohit said.

Also read: BCCI Has Taken India’s Seamers Out Of The Game – Mitchell McClenaghan On Pitch Controversy