The Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, which hosted the ODI World Cup final on November 19 between India and Australia, received an "average" rating for its pitch from the International Cricket Council (ICC). While the pitch was deemed average, the outfield earned a "very good" rating from ICC match referee and former Zimbabwean cricketer Andy Pycroft.
In the final, Australia triumphed over India by six wickets on a slow and sluggish pitch. India, opting to bat first, set a target of 240 runs in 50 overs, which Australia comfortably chased down in 43 overs, thanks to Travis Head's impressive 137 off 120 balls.
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The ICC has consistently rated pitches used in India's league matches in Kolkata, Lucknow, Ahmedabad, and Chennai as 'average.' In contrast, the pitch at the Wankhede Stadium for the semifinal match between India and New Zealand was rated 'good.' This rating came amidst reports of India using a previously played-on surface for the semifinal.
The Eden Gardens pitch in Kolkata, the venue for the second semifinal between Australia and South Africa, also received an "average" rating from the ICC. This low-scoring match saw Australia chasing down South Africa's total of 212 with seven wickets lost in 47.2 overs. Javagal Srinath, former Indian pacer and ICC match referee, however, rated Eden Gardens' outfield as "very good."
The ICC defines an "average" pitch as one lacking in carry, bounce, or occasional seam movement, but maintaining consistency in carry and bounce. It may offer a degree of turn for spinners but falls short of the "very good" category in terms of carry, bounce, and turn.
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(With PTI inputs)