The ICC has announced its pitch assessments for the venues featured in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia. Four out of the five grounds received the top rating of “very good”:
- Optus Stadium, Perth
- Adelaide Oval, Adelaide
- The Gabba, Brisbane
- Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne
The fifth ground, the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), was awarded a “satisfactory” rating, the second-highest on the ICC’s scale. This came after the SCG Test ended within three days, with both sides struggling to post significant totals, sparking debate over the surface’s suitability.
Peter Roach, Cricket Australia’s Head of Cricket Operations, remarked, “We value pitches that reflect the unique character of their respective venues, a hallmark of Australian cricket.” He further stated that SCG is working toward achieving “a balance of early pace and bounce before the pitch deteriorates and offers spin,” adding that this year’s surface was “a step in the right direction.”
Australia claimed a 3-1 series victory, their first Border-Gavaskar Trophy triumph in ten years. The diverse pitch conditions at different venues created a competitive setting, enhancing the overall excitement and appeal of the series.