The International Cricket Council (ICC) has rated the pitch at Perth Stadium as 'very good' for the first Ashes Test, despite the match finishing inside two days. The rating comes under the ICC's four-tier system, with the surface described as having 'good carry, limited seam movement, and consistent bounce early in the match, allowing for a balanced contest between batters and bowlers'.
Cricket Australia's chief of cricket, James Allsopp, welcomed the assessment, stating it justified their belief that the pitch provided a fair balance between bat and ball. He acknowledged disappointment for fans holding tickets for days three and four but highlighted the captivating moments that inspired large viewing audiences.
The ICC's assessment follows criticism from Indian commentators Harsha Bhogle and Boria Majumdar, who argued that a two-day finish was unfair to stakeholders. Bhogle noted that 60,000 people were expected on the Sunday, while Majumdar claimed double standards in pitch assessments between India and other countries.
The rating places further pressure on England's batting lineup, which lasted only 32.5 overs in the first innings and 34.4 overs in the second. Australia's first innings of 45.2 overs was the longest of the Test. Despite their poor performance, England's players have opted to skip a tour match under lights against the Prime Minister's XI in Canberra ahead of the second Test in Brisbane.
