The pitches at the Narendra Modi Stadium and Eden Gardens, utilized for the 2023 World Cup final and the second semi-final, have received an ‘average’ rating from the International Cricket Council (ICC).
ICC match referee Andy Pycroft assessed the pitch for the final, while former Indian pacer Javagal Srinath evaluated the wicket for the second semi-final. The second semi-final in Kolkata turned out to be a gripping, low-scoring encounter between Australia and South Africa.
Facing challenging conditions with overcast skies and a tricky pitch, the Proteas struggled at 22/4 but managed a remarkable recovery, setting a competitive target of 212.
In the reply, the Australians faced difficulties on a wicket offering significant turn, eventually reaching the target with three wickets remaining in the 48th over. In the final clash between India and Australia, the scores were somewhat elevated, as the hosts posted 240 on a two-paced Ahmedabad wicket.
However, the pitch settled in the second innings due to dewy conditions, allowing the Australians to successfully chase down the target with six wickets in just 43 overs. Prior to the final showdown, Australian captain Pat Cummins expressed reservations about competing on a pitch that had already been used.
Ironically, the Wankhede pitch in Mumbai, which stirred controversy before the first semi-final between India and New Zealand, was given a ‘good’ rating. During the match, India dominated the Kiwi bowlers, scoring a massive 397/4 in their 50 overs, and later dismissing the Blackcaps for 327.
In five out of Team India’s 11 World Cup matches, the ICC rated the pitches as average. These include the matches against Pakistan, South Africa, England, Australia, and the grand finale.
India couldn’t end their decade-long ICC title drought
Despite entering the 2023 World Cup as strong contenders, India exceeded the expectations of even their most dedicated supporters during the league stages.
Under the excellent leadership of Rohit Sharma, the Indian team played an audacious style of cricket, winning all nine matches to secure the top spot on the points table.
With resounding victories in every match, the team’s dominant performance led experts and fans to draw comparisons with some of the all-time great teams. The Asian giants also overcame the New Zealand challenge in the semi-final, setting the stage for an eagerly anticipated final against Australia.
In the knockout stage, India faced an unfortunate setback, experiencing a crushing defeat against the now-six-time world champions in Ahmedabad. This outcome extended India’s wait for an ICC title to over a decade, with their last victory occurring in the 2013 Champions Trophy.
Despite the painful conclusion, Team India showcased impressive performances, boasting the tournament’s top two run-scorers in Virat Kohli (765 runs) and Rohit Sharma (597 runs), along with the leading wicket-taker Mohammed Shami (24 scalps).
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