The pitch debate continues to dominate headlines ahead of the final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia. After the International Cricket Council (ICC) rated the Indore pitch, where the third Test was played, as ‘poor,’ the Indian skipper, Rohit Sharma, revealed that the team would prepare pitches that would assist spinners.
Former India head coach Ravi Shastri agreed that the Ahmedabad pitch would turn, but he questioned how quickly it would happen. Speaking with Star Sports, Shastri said, “It will turn, but the question is, how quickly? How long will they keep it in the oven? They kept it a bit long for this time.”
Former Australia opener Matthew Hayden also chimed in about the Ahmedabad pitch, saying that it would be nice to see a pitch that allows both teams to showcase their skills and abilities. Shastri agreed with Hayden and said, “Batters of both teams would want that.”
Despite the pitch debate, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) did not give any specific instructions to the Gujarat state association. According to a state association official, they are preparing a normal track as they have always done throughout the season.
The final Test of the four-match series will be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium from March 9. India won the first two Tests and subsequently retained the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Meanwhile, Australia made a terrific comeback and beat India in the third Test. With this win, Australia also secured their spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final, which will begin on June 7.
As the two sides gear up for the final Test, it remains to be seen what kind of pitch will be prepared and how it will affect the outcome of the match.
