ICC rescinds demerit point on Gaddafi Stadium pitch

LAHORE: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has rescinded the demerit point imposed on Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium after its appeals panel reviewed the venue’s “Unsatisfactory” pitch rating for the third ODI between Pakistan and Australia played on June 4.

The decision comes after an appeal by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), with the ICC Appeals Panel reviewing match footage, the Match Referee’s report and comments from the captains before reaching its verdict.

The panel concluded that although the Match Referee had correctly followed the ICC Pitch and Outfield Monitoring Process guidelines, the Gaddafi Stadium surface did not show “excessive unevenness or spin” and therefore did not warrant a demerit point.

As a result, Gaddafi Stadium now has zero demerit points on its record. The ICC Appeals Panel also reviewed two pitch ratings involving the Maple Leaf Cricket Ground in King City, Toronto. The venue had received an “Unsatisfactory” rating for the USA vs Netherlands match on June 8 and an “Unfit” rating for Canada vs Netherlands on June 16.

The panel withdrew the one demerit point awarded for the June 8 match, determining that the pitch was consistent with a satisfactory surface and did not demonstrate excessive unevenness, seam movement or spin.

However, the three demerit points awarded for the “Unfit” pitch used on June 16 will remain. The panel determined that the condition of the surface was dangerous and therefore consistent with an “Unfit” rating.

The Maple Leaf Cricket Ground consequently has three active demerit points, while Gaddafi Stadium has none.

Under the ICC’s Pitch and Outfield Monitoring Process, an “Unsatisfactory” pitch carries one demerit point, while an “Unfit” pitch results in three points. Demerit points remain active for five years.

A venue accumulating six or more demerit points is suspended from hosting international cricket for 12 months, while reaching 12 points results in a 24-month suspension.

The ICC’s decision provides significant relief to the PCB, with Gaddafi Stadium’s demerit point completely removed from its record following the successful appeal.