The pitch at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, which witnessed the ODI World Cup final clash between...
Digital Desk: The pitch at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, which witnessed the ODI World Cup final clash between India and Australia on November 19, has been assessed as "average" by the International Cricket Council (ICC). Despite the overall rating, ICC match referee and former Zimbabwe batter Andy Pycroft expressed a positive opinion, labeling the outfield as "very good."
The final saw Australia emerge victorious, defeating India by six wickets on a pitch described as slow and sluggish. India, opting to bowl, could only muster a total of 240 runs in 50 overs. Australia successfully chased down the target in 43 overs, with opener Travis Head leading the charge with an impressive 120-ball 137.
The ICC's evaluation extended to the pitches used in India's league matches against South Africa, England, Pakistan, and Australia in Kolkata, Lucknow, Ahmedabad, and Chennai, respectively—all receiving an "average" rating. However, the Wankhede Stadium pitch, where India faced New Zealand in the semifinals, received a more favorable 'good' rating.
In contrast, the Eden Gardens pitch in Kolkata, the venue for the second semifinal between Australia and South Africa, earned an "average" rating. Despite this, ICC match referee and former India pacer Javagal Srinath praised the outfield at Eden Gardens, giving it a "very good" rating. The semifinal at this venue witnessed Australia restricting South Africa to 212 runs in 49.4 overs and successfully chasing down the target in 47.2 overs, losing seven wickets in the process.
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