Why Has ICC Prepared Backup Pitch For WTC Final Amidst Just Stop Oil Protest?
WTC final is set to be played at the iconic Kennington Oval (WTC.com)
In light of potential disruptions by activists from Just Stop Oil, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has taken precautionary measures by preparing a backup pitch at The Oval for the World Test Championship final.
This proactive approach aims to mitigate any worst-case scenarios that may arise. The match, scheduled to commence on Wednesday, will still be played on the original strip that has been meticulously tended to over the past few days.
ICC proactive against activist threats
The decision to ready an alternative pitch follows a series of disturbances caused by Just Stop Oil activists, a coalition comprising environmental action groups committed to raising awareness about climate change, at various sporting events across the United Kingdom over the past year. Their disruptive activities have affected prominent competitions such as the Premier League football, World Snooker Championships, and Premiership Rugby Union.
Last week, the England men's team bus en route to Lord's for a one-off Test against Ireland experienced a brief delay due to activists obstructing its path on the first morning. Similarly, on Monday morning, the Australia team bus was caught in traffic caused by Just Stop Oil protests as they made their way to The Oval for a training session.
To address this potential challenge, the ICC has updated the playing conditions for the World Test Championship final, incorporating a provision that accounts for the utilization of an alternate pitch in case the existing one is damaged or deemed unsafe. Initially, efforts will be made to repair the original pitch, and if successful, the match will resume from the point it was halted, provided the surface does not adversely affect either team.
If it is determined that the original pitch cannot be restored, a new pitch will be brought into play. Only if it becomes impossible to resume the match on the alternative pitch will the contest be abandoned and considered a no-result. Both participating teams have been duly informed of this development by the ICC.
Australian skipper, Pat Cummins, revealed that the team received information about the situation during a security briefing a few days ago. He mentioned that they are aware of the potential disruptions and remain vigilant. However, Cummins expressed hope that such incidents would not occur. He also noted that he had heard about several other events that had been impacted by similar disruptions.
"It's something we got in the security briefing a couple days ago. I've heard that they're aware of it and kind of keep an eye out. But that's as much as we've heard. So hopefully, it doesn't happen, obviously," said Cummins as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.
In response to the security concerns, heightened measures have been implemented to safeguard both teams and the integrity of the Test. The match is set to be a sold-out event for all five days which further emphasized the significance of these precautions.
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