Perth Pitch For Ashes Gets ‘Very Good’ Rating From ICC Despite Early Finish

The ICC has rated the Perth pitch for The Ashes opener ‘very good’ despite the fact that the match ended inside two days.

The Perth Stadium pitch used for the first Ashes Test has received a “very good” rating from the International Cricket Council. This is the highest possible rating, despite the match ending inside two days. Australia took a 1-0 series lead with an eight-wicket victory in the frenetic contest.

The match saw 19 wickets fall on the first day alone. England were bowled out for 172, with Mitchell Starc taking 7-58. Australia then collapsed to 121-9 by stumps. England were dismissed for 164 on day two before Travis Head’s rapid 123 off 83 balls guided Australia to victory.

“The match referee’s ‘very good’ rating justifies our belief Perth Stadium produced a pitch that provided a fair balance between bat and ball,” CA chief of cricket James Allsopp said in a statement.

“The dominance of some brilliant pace bowling from both sides and the frenetic nature of the contest meant the match lasted only two days.

“This was disappointing for fans holding tickets for days three and four, but we saw some incredible moments which captivated huge viewing audiences and will inspire even more kids to pick up a bat and ball this summer,” he added.

The early finish resulted in significant lost revenue for Cricket Australia, as day three was sold out. However, surplus food prepared for the unused days was donated to those in need by the stadium. The next day-night Test is scheduled for December 4 at the Gabba in Brisbane.