As the cricketing world eagerly anticipates the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 semifinal clash between India and New Zealand, a significant controversy has unfolded, centering around a last-minute pitch switch at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. With India finishing atop the points table, the spotlight has turned to allegations that the hosts have altered the originally agreed-upon pitch conditions for the crucial encounter.
Hours before the scheduled start of the highly anticipated semifinal, reports surfaced indicating that Indian officials had requested the preparation of a slow pitch for the game. Contrary to the established norms, it is now revealed that the pitch initially selected for the encounter has been changed. During ICC competitions, pitches are typically prepared under the supervision of the governing body’s consultant, and agreements on the surface to be used are made in advance.
Despite an agreement between ICC consultant Andy Atkinson and the BCCI regarding the pitch for the semifinal, it has been reported that an unused surface was initially chosen but has since been replaced with a pitch that has already seen action twice in the tournament. The Daily Mail reported that Atkinson expressed his frustration in an email to ICC bosses, highlighting changes being made “without proper notice or forewarning.”
The controversy doesn’t stop with the semifinal, as concerns are raised about the pitch intended for the World Cup final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on November 19. The report suggests that the pitch for the final may be unilaterally changed, similar to what transpired during the league stage.
Atkinson, in his email, reportedly recommended pitch No. 5, used only once, for the final. However, he learned that No. 6, utilized twice and likely to generate more spin, was selected. When questioned, both the BCCI and Gujarat Cricket Association pointed fingers at each other, leaving unanswered questions about the fairness of pitch preparation.
The email from Atkinson raises speculation about whether this could be the first-ever Cricket World Cup final to have a pitch specifically chosen and prepared based on the home team’s preferences. The controversy adds an unexpected layer to the tournament, raising concerns about fairness and adherence to established procedures.
“As a result of these actions, one must speculate if this will be the first ever [Cricket World Cup] final to have a pitch which has been specifically chosen and prepared to their stipulation at the request of the team management and the hierarchy of the home nation board,” Atkinson wrote in his email.
“Or will it be selected or prepared without favoritism for either of the sides competing in the match in the usual manner, and unquestionably because it is the usual pitch for the occasion?” he added.
The pitch controversy surrounding the India vs. New Zealand semifinal has added an unexpected twist to the World Cup narrative. As cricket enthusiasts eagerly await the outcome of this high-stakes encounter, the off-field drama serves as a reminder of the challenges and controversies that can arise in the world of international cricket.
