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In an unprecedented turn of events, the Big Bash League (BBL) clash between Melbourne Renegades and Perth Scorchers at Geelong was called off due to dangerous pitch conditions. The decision was made following a thorough assessment by match officials and concerns raised by players.
Match halted after just 6.5 overs of play
The match was scheduled to be a thrilling encounter between two formidable teams, but the focus shifted abruptly to the state of the pitch. The playing surface at Simonds Stadium was deemed unfit after just 6.5 overs of play.
In the first innings of the match, Josh Inglis was dismayed by the sequence of deliveries bowled by Will Sutherland. The Scorchers batter soon went to the on-field umpires, Ben Treloar and Simon Lightbody, to express his disapproval about the dangerous looking pitch.
Here's the delivery that prompted the discussions.
Quinton de Kock's reaction 🫢 #BBL13 pic.twitter.com/1Tbq5YRjnq
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) December 10, 2023
Reasons behind the unsafe pitch to be found out
The decision to abandon the match was made in the interest of player safety, a top priority for cricket authorities. Both teams expressed their disappointment at not being able to showcase their skills and compete in front of eager fans.
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The abandonment raises questions about the pitch preparation and maintenance at Simonds Stadium, and officials have committed to conducting a thorough investigation to determine the reasons behind the unsafe playing conditions.
Former Renegades captain Aaron Finch, who was mic’d up at that moment told the commentators: “The ball had taken big divots out of the wicket… gripped the seam and was just bouncing ridiculously.”
Hear from Aaron Finch on the @FoxCricket mic as the umpires have a chat about the pitch in Geelong…#BBL13 pic.twitter.com/PsHbPQZZaL
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) December 10, 2023
Both sides shared a point each from the contest and will now focus on their upcoming fixtures, while fans were left disappointed at the unforeseen cancellation of what promised to be an exciting contest.
Holy shame..!!!
Can't even provide a safe pitch for a domestic tournament. 🥲
Why western cricket media is not crying over this..!! What if this had happened somewhere in Indian sub-continent..!!@cricketcomau @CricketAus #Bigbash #IndvSA #SAvIND https://t.co/1gRZD0Evrw— MECHrypto Engineer (@CryptoPunjab09) December 10, 2023
What a shame for aussie fans
A match called off just because of poor pitch 🤣😂🤣😂#BBL13 #PRSvMLR pic.twitter.com/Q4hs3O7iTg— ROYAL GURJAR👑 (@binodgurjar123) December 10, 2023
Cricket authorities will be working diligently to rectify the pitch issues and ensure a safe playing environment for future matches in the BBL|13 season.
