The Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) pitch curator Adam Lewis has downplayed concerns regarding the nature of the pitch being prepared for the upcoming fifth Ashes Test, which begins on January 4.
Two of the four Tests played in the Ashes series concluded within the first two days. The pitch curators in Perth and Melbourne faced significant criticism for preparing surfaces that resulted in short matches. In the most recent Ashes Test at the MCG, a total of 36 wickets fell inside two days, placing the SCG pitch under the spotlight.
Ahead of the Ashes finale, pictures of the SCG pitch circulating on social media show a grass covering, indicating that it could be another bowling-friendly surface. However, Lewis has asserted that his team is confident of preparing a balanced pitch.
“You want to see a green tinge three days out,” Lewis said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. “If you’re not seeing any live grass three days out, then that’s when it’s a worry. I’m really comfortable with where we’re sitting. We had a little bit of sun this morning, and they’re forecasting a bit more sun tomorrow. That will take the greenness out of the pitch. We’re really happy with the pitches at the moment. We’re looking good.”
According to Lewis, there will be 6 mm of grass on the SCG pitch, compared with 7 mm last season when India played at the venue, while the density of the grass has also been reduced.
With two matches ending early, Cricket Australia has suffered significant financial losses. CEO Todd Greenberg, however, remains confident that the SCG Test will last the distance.
“I’ve had more phone calls and conversations about wickets and millimetres of grass than I ever thought I would,” Greenberg said. “But I’m hopeful and confident that we will have a long and productive Test match here.”
Meanwhile, both teams have announced their squads. Todd Murphy and Shoaib Bashir are in line to feature for their respective sides, as spin is expected to play a role at the SCG.
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