ICC Or BCCI; Who Finalises The Pitch For Every Match In World Cup 2023?

image-lofbvb9cThe pitch plays a significant role in cricket [x.com]

Since cricket's inception, the playing area called the pitch, has played the most crucial role, being an integral part of the game. From uncovered tracks in Sir Donald Bradman's era to well-maintained surfaces in the modern day, the pitch has evolved over the years alongside the game. 

The fact that whether the toss-winning team will bat or bowl still depends on the nature of the pitch signifies its importance. So, when it comes to the pinnacle of cricketing events, the ICC World Cup, the pitches must be well prepared so that the games can be conducted smoothly. 

But who decides the pitch for a particular game in the World Cup? Is it the ICC or the apex cricketing body of the host nation? 


Who Finalises The Pitch For Every Match In World Cup 2023?

When the ICC gives the hosting rights of an event to a country, it also makes the cricketing body of that nation independent to decide the venues for the matches. So, basically, the BCCI is solely responsible for finalising the venues for all the matches of the 2023 World Cup. 

Regarding the pitches, it's neither ICC nor BCCI; the ground staff of a particular venue are given the authority to prepare and select the track for the World Cup games. However, the pitch's usage will be controlled by the umpires appointed by the ICC. 

As the ICC has made it loud and clear in its playing conditions guidelines for the 2023 World Cup, the ground staff should rope off the pitch to prevent unauthorised access to the playing area before the game. 

Meanwhile, it's the job of the fourth umpire to ensure nobody other than the authorised staff, ICC designated persons, the match officials, players, team coaches, and authorised television personnel gets access to the pitch. 


Who decides if the pitch is fit for play? 

While the ground staff prepare and select the pitch, the umpires are responsible for determining the standard of the surface. 

If, at any stage of the game, the on-field umpires find the pitch dangerous for the players, they have the authority to pause the game and inform the match referee. After that, the umpires and the referee will discuss it with the two captains before taking the final call on the resumption or suspension of the game. 


Who has the authority to evaluate the pitch? 

image-lofbynelChennai pitch for IND vs AUS was rated below average by the ICC [X.com]

The ICC conveys its guidelines of standard playing conditions to the host cricket board, which asks the ground staff of all the venues to adhere to the norms set by the apex body. In addition, the ICC appoints a match referee, who assesses the pitch as the game progresses. Upon getting the report from the referee, the ICC evaluates the pitch by rating it. 

A pitch or outfield is deemed to be substandard if it receives a rating of poor or unfit. Sanctions may be applied by the ICC to a venue that presents a substandard pitch or outfield for international cricket.