Cricket World Cup final pitch rated 'average' by ICC

The pitch over which the World Cup 2023 final was played between India and Australia at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad has been rated “average” by the International Cricket Council (ICC). The outfield for the final match was rated “very good” by ICC match referee and former Zimbabwe batter Andy Pycroft.

Australia won the World Cup by beating India by six wickets in Ahmedabad. India batted first in the match and could only score 240 as they struggled against the slow and sluggish track. With dew in their favour, Australia completed the chase in 43 overs. Travis Head made a match-winning 137 in the final.

The Mumbai pitch over which India played their semi-final against New Zealand at the Wankhede Stadium was given a “good” rating. The rating goes against the media reports around the semi-final which stated that India had changed the pitch for the last four matches at the last minute and a used surface was used instead of a fresh pitch.

ICC also gave an “average” rating to pitches used in India’s group matches against South Africa (Kolkata), England (Lucknow), Pakistan (Ahmedabad) and Australia (Chennai).

The semi-final pitch in Kolkata where Australia defeated South Africa in a low-scoring thriller was given an “average” rating. At the match in Eden Gardens, South Africa were bowled out for 212 before Australia completed that chase in 47.2 overs despite losing seven wickets.

The outfield at Eden Garden during the match was given a “very good” rating by match referee Javagal Srinath.