Following the pitch controversy that rocked the cricketing arena ahead of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 semifinal match between India and New Zealand on Wednesday, the International Cricket Council (ICC) clarified that the independent pitch consultant Andy Atkinson was taken into confidence on the change of surface.
As per some reports, while a fresh pitch was originally prepared for the last-four match at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai for the high-voltage clash, later it was decided to play the game on a ‘used’ deck.
Following the development, several experts alleged that it has been done in order to help Indian spinners.
In response to the allegation, ICC stated that the decision to change the pitch has nothing uncommon to it.
“Changes to planned pitch rotations are common towards the end of an event of this length, and have already happened a couple of times. This change was made on the recommendation of the venue curator in conjunction with our host,” said ICC in a statement.
“The ICC independent pitch consultant was apprised of the change and has no reason to believe the pitch won’t play well,” cricket’s global governing body further added.