Did ICC Rate Perth's Pitch as 'Very Good' After the Rapid Ashes Opener?
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Synopsis
The ICC has praised Perth's pitch for the first Ashes Test, rating it 'very good' after an extraordinary two-day match that saw an impressive display of fast bowling. With a thrilling finish and a series lead for Australia, this Test has already captivated cricket fans worldwide.
Key Takeaways
- The ICC rated the Perth pitch as 'very good'.
- The match lasted only two days, marking a historic Ashes Test.
- Mitchell Starc's performance was exemplary with 7-58.
- Australia leads the series 1-0 after an impressive win.
- Cricket Australia emphasized the pitch's fairness in competition.
Dubai, Nov 27 (NationPress) The International Cricket Council (ICC) has declared the pitch for the inaugural Ashes Test in Perth as 'very good', following the conclusion of the series opener within a mere two days. The match comprised just 847 deliveries, marking it as the shortest Ashes Test since 1888.
Match referee Ranjan Madugalle awarded the Perth wicket a 'very good' rating, which is the highest possible in the ICC's four-tier system, indicating a pitch with 'good carry, limited seam movement, and consistent bounce' early in the game, thus fostering a fair contest between batters and bowlers.
The first day saw an astonishing 19 wickets fall, with England bowled out for 172 runs, while Mitchell Starc achieved a career-best of 7-58. Australia's batting lineup faced struggles, ending Day 1 at 121/9.
On Day 2, 13 wickets fell, leading to 380 runs being scored as England was dismissed for 164. An impressive 123 from Travis Head propelled Australia to a convincing eight-wicket victory, giving them a 1-0 lead in the five-match series.
James Allsopp, the head of cricket at Cricket Australia, expressed, 'The match referee's 'very good' rating reinforces our belief that Perth Stadium produced a pitch offering a fair balance for both bat and ball. The match's thrilling pace and exceptional fast bowling from both teams contributed to its two-day duration.
'While it was disappointing for fans expecting to attend days three and four, we witnessed extraordinary moments that captivated large audiences and will undoubtedly inspire more youngsters to embrace cricket this summer.'
'We aim to ensure pitches across Australia maintain their unique characteristics, and we eagerly await another exciting contest under lights at the Gabba next Thursday.'
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the significance of the ICC's rating for the Perth pitch. This acknowledgment not only emphasizes the quality of the playing surface but also reflects the competitive spirit of the Ashes series. While the swift conclusion disappointed some fans, it showcased the thrilling nature of cricket, which continues to engage audiences.
NationPress
27/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the ICC rate the Perth pitch as 'very good'?
The ICC rated the Perth pitch as 'very good' due to its excellent carry, limited seam movement, and consistent bounce, which provided a fair contest between batters and bowlers.
What made this Ashes Test historic?
This Ashes Test became historic as it was concluded in just two days, making it the shortest in terms of balls bowled since 1888.
Who had the best bowling figures in the match?
Mitchell Starc achieved the best bowling figures in the match with 7 wickets for 58 runs.
What was the outcome of the match?
Australia won the match by eight wickets, taking a 1-0 lead in the five-match Ashes series.
What is Cricket Australia's perspective on the match?
Cricket Australia praised the pitch's balance between bat and ball, while acknowledging the disappointment for fans expecting more days of play.
