'This is unacceptable': ICC ripped apart for ‘terrible’ drop-in New York pitch after low-scoring SL vs SA T20WC match
Hindustan TimesAn unusually low-scoring match between Sri Lanka and South Africa on Monday, in Group D of the 2024 T20 World Cup, sparked criticism from veteran cricketers and experts, with ICC blasted for the treacherous Nassau County International Cricket Stadium pitch in New York. Sri Lanka's captain Wanindu Hasaranga celebrates after the dismissal of South Africa's Heinrich Klaasen during the ICC men's Twenty20 World Cup 2024 group D cricket match between Sri Lanka and South Africa at Nassau County International Cricket Stadium Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Sri Lanka were folded for just 77 runs in 19.1 overs as South Africa fast bowler Anrich Nortje registered the most economical four-over spell in the history of men’s T20 World Cup, finishing with 4 for 7. Former India cricketer Irfan Pathan described the pitch as "not ideal", while former South Africa performance coach Prasanna Agoram labelled it as “terrible”. In addition to the uneven wicket, Nassau County International Cricket Stadium was also criticised for the poor outfield, with former India cricketer Manoj Tiwary pointing out how the ball tended to stop or lose pace when batters hit along the ground.