[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text dp_text_size=”size-4″]KARACHI: After the Pakistan vs. England Test there last month, the International Cricket Council (ICC) Monday revoked the demerit points assessed to Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
Additionally, Rawalpindi’s wicket’s “below average” designation has been reversed by the ICC.
The action follows an appeal against the ICC ruling by the management committee of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), which is chaired by Najam Sethi.
“The demerit point handed to the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium for a ‘below average’ pitch rating for the first match of the ICC World Test Championship series between Pakistan and England from 1 to 5 December last year has been rescinded,” the ICC said in a statement. “Following an appeal by the Pakistan Cricket Board pursuant to the ICC Pitch and Outfield Monitoring Process.”
The appeal panel came to the conclusion that the wicket did not merit the “below average” ranking since it had some redeeming qualities, such as the fact that a result was reached after an exciting game in which 37 out of a possible 39 wickets were taken.
The stadium’s pitch, which was used for the opening match of the ICC World Test Championship series between Pakistan and England, was rated “below average” by match referee Andy Pycroft last month, and as a result, the venue received one demerit point under the ICC Pitch and Outfield Monitoring Process.
The PCB chairman at the time, Ramiz Raja, had described the wicket as disgraceful. Sethi, who had taken Raja’s place a few days after the Rawalpindi Test, went to the ICC and contested the judgement.
“We did send ICC a stern letter regarding this. I’m pleased with the ruling in our favour “After the ICC accepted Pakistan’s appeal, Sethi stated.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
