Newlands surface expected to attract sanctions and demerit points

The Newlands Cricket Ground in Cape Town has become the focal point of discussions following the conclusion of the second and final Test between India and South Africa, which concluded in a mere 642 balls (107 overs) – the shortest contest in history. Notably, the visitors won the game by seven wickets, marking their inaugural triumph at this venue. Presently, the Newlands pitch is likely to face sanctions from the International Cricket Council (ICC) according to Cricbuzz.

In addition to potential sanctions, the ICC is anticipated to impose demerit points against the ground. However, there is no speculation regarding whether Rohit Sharma will be penalised for his remarks against the ICC and the match referee. The Indian captain openly criticised the surface after the game. 

The second Test produced a result in the second session of Day 2, which faced a lot of criticism, particularly focusing on match referee Chris Broad's assessment of the surface. Broad, a former England batter, has been compelled to give a rating of either poor or unfit.

It's worth noting that pitches can be rated on a scale of six categories- very good, good, average, below average, poor, and unfit. If the rating falls into the last two categories the pitch will face the imposition of demerit points, ranging from one to five, potentially leading to suspension. Meanwhile, ratings of very good, good, and average are not under scrutiny, whereas below average might be considered a milder penalty. The Newlands surface is expected to get a poor or unfit rating.

ICC, the global governing body for cricket, typically releases its decision on matters like this after its operations team in Dubai evaluates the match referee's rating. However, a final decision is likely to be revealed on Monday, January 8.

For the unreversed, the surface used for the first Test at SuperSport Park Cricket Stadium in Centurion also faced scrutiny. However, it has receded from the spotlight following the controversy at Newlands. Remarkably, the match concluded within three days with the hosts winning it by an innings and 32 runs.