Two Pitches Prepared for WTC Final: As the anticipation builds for the highly anticipated World Test Championship (WTC) final between India and Australia, an intriguing revelation has come to light.
In an unprecedented move, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has taken proactive measures by preparing not one, but two pitches for the much-anticipated clash set to commence on June 7 at the iconic Oval in London. While some may speculate about controversial motives behind this decision, the truth is far less dramatic.
Two Pitches Prepared for WTC Final: Why?
The primary reason for the ICC’s precautionary measure lies in the ongoing oil protest and potential disruptions in the city of London. The world governing body of cricket aims to mitigate any unforeseen circumstances that may arise, ensuring that the marquee event proceeds smoothly.
In light of these concerns, apart from Two Pitches Prepared for WTC Final, the ICC has introduced certain amendments to the playing conditions, including the addition of a new clause (6.4) specifically addressing the unlikely scenario of pitch damage either before or during the Test. Both teams have been duly informed about this contingency plan, while heightened security measures are being implemented to safeguard the match.
Two Pitches Prepared for WTC Final: While the existence of two pitches is not visibly apparent to spectators, the relevant stakeholders involved are well aware of this alternative provision, often referred to as ‘Plan B.’ Due to the sensitive nature of the matter, the authorities involved have refrained from offering detailed comments or elaborating further on the subject.
However, a reliable source close to the development shed some light on why Two Pitches Prepared for WTC Final, highlighting the ICC’s commitment to ensuring a conclusive outcome for the highly anticipated final. “We are taking every precaution and preparing for all possible eventualities to guarantee a decisive result for the final,” shared a knowledgeable source familiar with the matter. It is important to note that this additional pitch preparation is specific to the one-off championship final, reflecting the gravity and significance of the contest.
In a related development, concerns have emerged surrounding potential disruptions by the ‘Just Stop Oil’ activists during the India-Australia WTC Final. The recent instances of protests by this group in the vicinity of The Oval have prompted the ICC to take extra precautions and prepare an alternate pitch as a precautionary measure. Traffic disruptions caused by the protesters earlier this week delayed the Australian team’s arrival at the venue, necessitating police intervention.
Pat Cummins, the captain of the Australian cricket team, acknowledged the security briefing that highlighted the potential for disruptions and expressed hopes that the ‘Just Stop Oil’ protesters would not disrupt the highly anticipated match. “We were informed about it during the security briefing a couple of days ago,” Cummins stated. “I am aware that they are keeping a close eye on the situation. Hopefully, it does not occur. There have been reports of various events being affected.”
The actions of the protesters have previously impacted sporting events, including the interruption of the World Snooker Championship and the English Premiership rugby final. These incidents serve as a reminder of the need for heightened security measures and contingency plans to ensure the smooth execution of major sporting events.
As the cricketing world eagerly awaits the commencement of the WTC Final, the ICC’s proactive approach in preparing two pitches demonstrates their commitment to the fair and uninterrupted completion of the match.
While the primary motive behind Two Pitches Prepared for WTC Final is to address any unforeseen circumstances arising from the ongoing protests, it also serves as a testament to the ICC’s dedication to preserving the integrity and competitiveness of the pinnacle event in Test cricket.
With security measures in place and contingency plans enacted, all eyes are now on the Oval as cricket’s titans prepare to vie for glory in what promises to be an enthralling battle on the hallowed turf.
For more, check out: Two Pitches Prepared for WTC Final
Get IPL 2023 Live Score along with Points Table & Schedule Updates at IceCric.News and Follow for Live Updates – Twitter, Facebook & Instagram.
