The 2023 Big Bash League (BBL) match between Melbourne Renegades and Perth Scorchers was suspended on Sunday after umpires deemed the pitch unsuitable for use in the match. On several occasions, the ball bounced sharply, threatening the batters’ safety. The umpires decided to make a call after the Renegades bowled 6.5 overs to the Scorchers and decided to suspend the match and discuss the matter with the organisers.
The problem is said to have become serious because there is a wet area in the field which disturbs the hitters. When bowlers bend in that area, the ball bounces strangely. Some gaps can also be spotted on the surface, regarding the two groups of players.
It should be noted that there was some rain overnight at Geelong Stadium. Somehow, water seeped under the covers, resulting in such a situation.
Listen to Aaron Finch on @foxcricket Microphone as referees chat around the field in Geelong…#BBL13 pic.twitter.com/PsHbPQZZaL
– KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) December 10, 2023
There was discussion in the comments section about continuing the match, with Michael Vaughan asking Adam Gilchrist if the match should be allowed to continue.
“Is there a real threat to the batsmen or are they really difficult to hit?” Michael Vaughan asked.
“I think there is a real threat,” Gilchrist replied.
“Is it safe?”
“Probably not.”The match was postponed due to the condition of the field, and this ball is the last straw…#BBL13 pic.twitter.com/WV6zDRMsnH
– 7cricket (@7cricket) December 10, 2023
Former Australia captain Aaron Finch also gave his analysis, saying: “I haven’t heard anything the doctors are saying but they are clearly concerned about how the balls are bouncing off that wet patch here.
“It’s a good length. It’s six to seven metres. Some balls go in there. They’re obviously a little worried about that.”
“It’s been exploited (by the curators) but it’s just taken some big holes off the surface there as well. You can see the one that Josh Inglis just got there, it’s grabbed the seam and it’s bouncing ridiculously.”
“If that aligns with someone’s body or head, there could be some real issues.”
After one of the deliveries went past Josh Inglis, Finch exclaimed: “Oh my God.”
The Scorchers were 2-30 from 6.5 overs when the match was suspended, with batsmen Aaron Hardy (20) and Josh Inglis (3) at the crease. The match was later cancelled.
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