Revealed: Team India's Unusual Pitch Demand During Adelaide Test

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) reportedly made an ‘unusual’ pitch demand ahead of the ongoing first Test between India and Australia at the Adelaide Oval. The ongoing game is a historic one as it is the first-ever day-night Test between the two teams.

Talking about the game, Indian finished day one of the series-opener in a precarious position. India were on 233 for  when the stumps were called. The visitors were looking set to end the day on a high when Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane were in the middle, facing the Australian bowlers without much difficulty.

However, things changed drastically when Virat Kohli was dismissed in the 77th over against the run of play. The India skipper was run-out for a well-made 74 after a horrible mix-up with Rahane. The dismissal ended the 88-run stand and led to a mini-collapse as the visitors were reduced to 206 for 2 from 188 for 2.

India’s pitch demands:

According to a report in Foxsports.com.au, the BCCI gave clear instructions to the Adelaide Oval ground staff that the wicket not be touched in any way while they are away from the ground. As a result, the pitch was not at all rolled or swept last night or this morning ahead of the start of second day’s play.

Usually, the teams are given the option of using a heavy or light roller ahead of a day’s play but it is unusual to issue so strict directions around the sweeping of debris from the surface. The teams, however, have the option to ensure that the pitch is not touched up until 10 minutes before the resumption of play, according to ICC.

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