The Melbourne Renegades and Perth Scorchers’ Big Bash League (BBL) match on December 10, 2023, at Simonds Stadium in Geelong had to be called off because of unsafe playing conditions caused by the pitch.
The game unfolded as anticipated, with the Renegades winning the toss and choosing to field. However, the pitch, featuring a damp area, started to exhibit unpredictable bounces post-powerplay.
Both batsman Josh Inglis and wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock were taken aback by the unexpected behavior of the pitch, prompting the intervention of match officials.
The match came to a brief pause as umpires examined the wet patch and resulting divots. Ultimately, prioritizing player safety, the decision was made to abandon the game, leading to a point-sharing scenario between the two teams.
As per Cricket Australia’s announcement, if the match cannot be rescheduled later in the season, both teams will retain the points awarded.
“Each team will receive one point unless the game can be rescheduled. Fans will be refunded the cost of their tickets,” the statement read.
“CA will conduct a thorough review into the extremely frustrating circumstances that have resulted in the game being abandoned and a huge disappointment for fans and players,” it continued.
The BBL 2023-24 will proceed with a match in Tasmania, featuring the Hobart Hurricanes against the Sydney Sixers. Cricket Australia has launched a thorough examination in response to the regrettable pitch incident during BBL 2023-24.
The Melbourne Renegades have yet to secure a victory in BBL 2023-24
The Renegades, having participated in two BBL 2023-24 matches, are still seeking their first win as they lost their initial game to the Sydney Sixers.
The Renegades vs. Scorchers match wasn’t the inaugural abandonment in BBL 2023-24. The planned match between the Adelaide Strikers and Brisbane Heat was called off due to continuous rain in South Australia on December 9.
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