Melbourne Renegades. (Photo Source: X(Twitter)
The match no 4 of the Big Bash League 2023-24 between Perth Scorchers and Melbourne Renegades played at Simonds Stadium, Geelong landed in controversy as the game had to be called off due to the surface being deemed dangerous for the batters. Notably, only 6.5 overs were completed in the match when the fifth ball of the seventh over bowled by Will Sutherland bounced at an awkward height to reach the wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock.
As a result, following long discussions between the on-field umpires and the captains of both sides, the game was finally abandoned. After the game, Perth Scorchers Captain Ashton Turner gave his suggestions with regards to playing conditions and bringing a bit of flexibility in them in such circumstances.
Also Read: ‘King of Commentary’ – Ravi Shastri gets grand welcome on his Big Bash League debut
“We spoke about that a little bit as well, I think we need some flexibility with the playing conditions. I’ve heard ideas floated, ‘Can we play from one end?’ No doubt there is a way that we could get a game of cricket, but we need some flexibility with the playing conditions to allow that,” Turner was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au.
Furthermore, legendary Australia captain Ricky Ponting also suggested the idea of having some trial-overs on the pitch to assess its condition before the start of the game. Notably, no balls are permitted to be bowled on the pitch prior to the start of the play as per the playing conditions and nor is anyone allowed to strike it with the bat. Only the captain and the team coach are allowed to walk on the pitch to assess it ahead of the game.
Speaking about the possible change in playing conditions in the upcoming seasons, Cricket Australia’s Head of Operations and Scheduling, Peter Roach said that the playing conditions are improvised at the end of every season and they will once again work ahead of the next season to bring further variations if required.
We are always seeking to improve our playing conditions: Peter Roach
Also Read: Cricket Australia to thoroughly review Scorchers-Renegades BBL game after controversial call off
“We are always seeking to improve our playing conditions, at the conclusion of each season we engage various stakeholders for suggestions on how we can improve the game. There were multiple changes implemented this season like the ruling of when the ball hits the roof at Marvel Stadium. We’ll again work with stakeholders ahead of next summer to determine if further variations are required,” said Roach as quoted by cricket.com.au.
Meanwhile, after the game was abandoned, Renegades and Scorchers were awarded one point each.