Brisbane pitch used for first Australia vs South Africa Test rated as 'below average' by ICC

Richie Richardson of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees has rated the Brisbane Cricket Ground pitch that was used for the first match of the ICC World Test Championship series between Australia and South Africa as “below average” and the venue has received one demerit point under the ICC Pitch and Outfield Monitoring Process.

Mr Richardson said: “Overall, the Gabba pitch for this Test match was too much in favour of the bowlers.There was extra bounce and occasional excessive seam movement. The odd delivery also kept low on the second day, making it very difficult for batters to build partnerships.

“I found the pitch to be “below average” as per the ICC guidelines since it was not an even contest between bat and ball.” Mr. Richardson’s report has been forwarded to Cricket Australia.

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