In a first, International Cricket Council (ICC) has prepared two pitches for World Test Championship (WTC) final at Kennington Oval, London. In the last few days, the amount of grass on the pitch surface has sparked debate. Dinesh Karthik also shared a photo of the pitch on June 6 evening. However, it has been learnt that ICC has taken the decision due to unforeseen events and the second pitch will work as a backup.
The main reason behind ICC's bizarre decision can be them being cautious about the ongoing oil protests in London. Earlier this month, Ben Stokes-led England team's bus was halted due to these protests. The apex cricket body has taken measures to ensure that the WTC final does not get affected by adding a new clause (6.4) that explains the follow-up actions if the pitch undergoes damage before or during the Test.
On the eve of the WTC final, it has been learned that both teams have been informed about the potential threat and about the new changes to playing conditions.
Clause 6.4: Changing the Pitch
6.4.1: If the on-field umpires determine that it is unsafe or unreasonable to continue play on the match pitch, they shall halt the game and immediately inform the ICC match referee.
6.4.2: The on-field umpires and ICC match referee will consult with both captains.
6.4.3: If the captains agree to resume play, the game will recommence.
6.4.4: If the decision is not to resume play, the on-field umpires, in consultation with the ICC match referee, will assess whether the existing pitch can be repaired and the match can resume from the point it was stopped. The ICC match referee must consider whether this repair would unfairly advantage either side, given the play that had already taken place on the dangerous pitch.
6.4.5: If the decision is that the existing pitch cannot be repaired, the ICC match referee will collaborate with the ICC to explore options for the match to continue on another pitch at the same venue, provided the ICC is satisfied that the new pitch meets the required Test standard.
6.4.6: If it is not feasible to resume the match on another pitch at the same venue on any scheduled day of the match (including the reserve day), the match will be abandoned (no result).
6.4.7: Throughout the decision-making processes mentioned above, the ICC match referee will keep both captains and the head of the ground authority informed. The head of the ground authority will ensure appropriate and timely public announcements are made.
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