The track at the Nassau County ground—which is “bordering on dangerous with huge open cracks”—has drawn attention during the ongoing T20 World Cup. The International Cricket Council (ICC) acknowledged on Thursday that the tracks utilized thus far “have not played as consistently as we would have all wanted”.
Worries increased as India began their campaign with a low-scoring eight-wicket victory over Ireland, who were bowled out of 96 in just 16 overs. After being hit by pacer Josh Little on his right bicep, India captain Rohit Sharma had to quit hurt despite scoring a half century in the winning chase.
The ball that struck him suddenly took off from length on a pitch that offered a great degree of uneven bounce. Rishabh Pant was also hit on his left elbow during his 36 not out.
Aside from the injury scare, others are questioning the pitch’s characteristics because it was brought in specially for the World Cup from Adelaide. Two additional games for India are slated to take place at this stadium.
The track is unfit for Twenty20 cricket, according to a number of former players, including Irfan Pathan, Michael Vaughan, and Sanjay Manjrekar. This is especially true given that the tournament is being marketed as cricket’s foray into uncharted American territory.
“T20 Inc and the ICC recognise that the pitches used so far at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium have not played as consistently as we would have all wanted,” the ICC said in a statement.
“The world-class grounds team have been working hard since the conclusion of yesterday’s game to remedy the situation and deliver the best possible surfaces for the remaining matches,” it added.
Meanwhile Team India is set to face arch rivals Pakistan on the same Venue on 9th June.
