BGT 2024-25: Gabba Groundskeeper Anticipates 'More Lively' Pitch for Brisbane Encounter
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Brisbane, Dec 11 (NationPress) With inclement weather leading the Australian team to practice indoors at the Gabba, groundskeeper David Sandurski has pointed out the benefits of an early-season pitch, which might give Pat Cummins and his bowling unit the optimal setting to disrupt India in the third Test between Australia and India, commencing on Saturday.
"Different times of year definitely make it different; it can be a slightly different pitch," Sandurski told news.com.au. "Pitches later in the season might have a bit more wear and tear, while ones early in the season usually are a bit fresher and might have a bit more in them."
Sandurski confirmed that the preparation method remains unchanged, aiming to deliver the signature pace, bounce, and carry that have established the Gabba as a formidable venue for visiting teams. "We are just trying to make a traditional Gabba wicket like we do each year," he added.
Australia's recent history at the Gabba underscores the significance of timing. The team has experienced losses in its last two Tests at this venue, including a defeat to the West Indies in January 2023 and the memorable loss to India in 2021 when Rishabh Pant led a remarkable 329-run chase. However, December Tests at the Gabba have typically seen Australia excel, highlighting the potential advantage of a fresher wicket at the start of the season.
Only one Sheffield Shield match has occurred at the Gabba this season, offering limited insights into the pitch conditions. That match, a pink-ball showdown between Queensland and Victoria, saw 15 wickets fall on the first day before Victoria piled up 439 runs in their second innings to clinch a decisive win.
Sandurski aspires to achieve a similar balance as seen in that game. "The aim is to be similar to that wicket where there was a good balance between bat and ball. Hopefully, there is a bit in it for everyone," he remarked.
Nevertheless, stormy weather predicted for later in the week could further complicate pitch preparation and match conditions. The Australians, who have been restricted to indoor training due to recent rainfall, are hoping for clearer skies as the match date draws near.
The Gabba's future as a Test venue remains uncertain beyond the upcoming summer, adding an extra layer of intrigue to this week's match. While Brisbane has traditionally been home to the first Test of Australia's summer, the earlier scheduling and venue rotation this season reflect broader changes in the Test calendar. Next year, the Gabba will host the second Test of the Ashes series in early December, potentially marking a farewell to its long-standing role in shaping Australia's Test summers.
