The Gabba pitch rated 'below average' by ICC following Australia-South Africa Test

20-12-2022
2 min read
Getty Images

The Gabba pitch for the first Test between Australia and South Africa has been rated 'below average' by the ICC, following a chaotic two-day affair between the two sides.

The hosts were able to secure victory and take a 1-0 series lead inside just two days in Brisbane, with 34 wickets taken across the weekend.

It has led to plenty of widespread debate across the cricketing community, with Aussie skipper Pat Cummins defending the extra grass on the wicket, while opposing captain Dean Elgar and Indian legend Virender Sehwag slammed the curators.

On Tuesday night, ICC elite panel of match referees member Richie Richardson handed down his verdict, and it's not good news for the Brisbane ground staff.

MORE: Should the Big Bash introduce a Christmas Day fixture?

"Overall, the Gabba pitch for this Test match was too much in favour of the bowlers," he said.

"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."

The Gabba will now receive one demerit point from the ICC, which will remain for the next five years.

If any ground receives five or more demerit points within a five-year period, it will be suspended from holding any international fixtures for 12 months.

Australia will take on South Africa in the second Test on Boxing Day at the MCG.