ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023

Newzdaddy Cricket Updates

As the cricketing world eagerly anticipates the World Cup 2023 final, attention is turning to the playing conditions, with a statement from the pitch curator suggesting that a score of 315 might prove challenging for the team batting second.

The International Cricket Council’s pitch consultant, Andy Atkinson, recently concluded his assignment in India. Speculation arose about his absence, but a BCCI source clarified that there’s no written rule mandating the presence of the ICC’s pitch consultant before the final.

Atkinson had previously stirred controversy by accusing the host nation of altering the pitch for the semifinal clash between India and New Zealand. India went on to score 397/4, and New Zealand was bowled out for 327, resulting in India’s victory. Despite Atkinson’s claims, the ICC clarified that there’s no rule specifying the use of a fresh track for knockout matches.

On November 17, key personnel from the BCCI, including Ashish Bhowmick, Taposh Chatterjee, and Abbey Kuruvilla, inspected the pitch at the Narendra Modi Stadium in preparation for the final on November 19. The nature of the pitch – whether it’s a used one or a fresh track – remains unconfirmed.

A state association curator shed light on the potential playing conditions, explaining that if a heavy roller is used on a black soil strip, the track could be slow, making it challenging to hit through the line. The curator suggested that a score of 315 could be defendable, considering the difficulty of batting second.

Despite Atkinson’s departure and past controversies, the focus now shifts to the upcoming final, where cricket enthusiasts worldwide are eagerly awaiting an exciting and competitive match.