After a disappointing penultimate Ashes test that was wrapped up within two days, the ICC have delivered a hammer blow to the MCG, grading the Boxing Day pitch as “unsatisfactory.”
It’s the worst assessment the ICC have given of any test wicket in the world in almost two years.
The main reason for the grade, outlined in a report by match referee Jeff Crowe, was that the pitch favoured the bowlers too much.
The ground was also given a demerit point by the ICC. Although it’s unlikely to mean anything, six demerit points in a five-year span bans a venue from hosting any international matches.
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James Allsopp, Cricket Australia’s chief of cricket, reacted to the news.
“We were disappointed for the fans holding tickets for days three and four, and also the millions of fans excited to watch the action in Australia and around the world, that the pitch did not provide the MCG’s customary balance between bat and ball.,” he said.
“We appreciate the outstanding work the MCC staff have done over recent years producing excellent Test match pitches.
“We’re confident they will deliver first-rate surfaces for next year’s NRMA Insurance Boxing Day Test against New Zealand and the hugely anticipated 150th Anniversary Test against England in March 2027.”
The assessment handed down by the ICC is in stark contrast to the Perth test, which also finished inside two days, after the Optus Stadium pitched was graded “very good.”