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MCG pitch for fourth Ashes Test rated as 'poor' by ICC

The MCG pitch for the fourth Ashes Test was criticised by both captains
Image: The MCG pitch for the fourth Ashes Test was criticised by both captains

The MCG pitch that hosted the drawn Boxing Day Ashes Test has been given a rating of "poor" by the ICC Pitch and Outfield Monitoring Process.

The wicket was criticised by both Joe Root and Steve Smith for the lack of pace and bounce on offer to bowlers.

Match referee Ranjan Madugalle submitted a report expressing the concerns of the players, saying: "The bounce of the MCG pitch was medium, but slow in pace and got slower as the match progressed.

"The nature of the pitch did not change over the five days and there was no natural deterioration.

"As such, the pitch did not allow an even contest between the bat and the ball as it neither favoured the batsmen too much nor it gave the bowlers sufficient opportunity to take wickets."

Steve Smith of Australia (L) and Joe Root of England shake hands after the drawn result in the Fourth Test
Image: Neither Smith or Root were happy with the pitch for the fourth Ashes Test

The draw denied England their first win on the Ashes tour, as well as removing the possibility of a whitewash for Australia.

Following the result, England captain Root called the pitch "very unresponsive" while Australia captain Smith said: "I don't think it's good for anyone."

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The punishment handed down by the ICC to the MCG authorities could range from a warning to a fine, as well as a directive to address the pitch's shortcomings.

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