Web Desk: The International Cricket Council has overturned a demerit point imposed on Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium after reviewing an appeal against the pitch rating awarded during Pakistan’s third ODI against Australia in June.
The ICC Appeals Panel reviewed match footage, reports from the match referees and comments provided by the captains before reaching its decision on three separate pitch-rating appeals filed by the Pakistan Cricket Board and Cricket Canada.
The demerit point handed to Gaddafi Stadium followed an “Unsatisfactory” assessment of the playing surface during the Pakistan-Australia ODI on June 4.
However, the appeals panel concluded that although the match referee had applied the ICC’s Pitch and Outfield Monitoring Process correctly, the surface did not show excessive unevenness or spin. As a result, the demerit point has been withdrawn.
Gaddafi Stadium now has no demerit points on its record.
The panel also overturned one demerit point previously assigned to the Maple Leaf Cricket Ground in King City, Toronto.
The venue had received an “Unsatisfactory” rating for an ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup League 2 match between the United States and the Netherlands on June 8. It was later given an “Unfit” rating for another match between Canada and the Netherlands on June 16.
After examining the June 8 fixture, the panel determined that the surface was consistent with a satisfactory pitch and did not display excessive unevenness, seam movement or spin.
Consequently, the demerit point linked to that match was removed.
However, Cricket Canada’s appeal concerning the June 16 match was only partially successful.
The three demerit points imposed after the “Unfit” rating will remain on the Maple Leaf Cricket Ground’s record. The panel determined that the pitch posed a safety risk and therefore met the criteria for an unfit playing surface.
Following the rulings, Maple Leaf Cricket Ground now carries three demerit points, while Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium has been cleared of all demerit points.
The decisions underscore the ICC’s appeal process, which allows pitch ratings to be reassessed using match evidence and reports from officials and participating teams.
Read more: Transport fares reduced by 10% after diesel price drop
