WTC Final: ICC prepares two pitches for mega event as precautionary measure at Kennington Oval

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has prepared two pitches for the eagerly-anticipated World Test Championship (WTC) Final clash between team India and Australia, at the Kennington Oval, in London, starting on June 7. 

Ahead of the crucial One-off Test, the ICC decided to prepare two surfaces for the clash as a precautionary measure. As per the latest developments, the move by the ICC was made following a warning from oil protesters, who have threatened to vandalize the pitch and ground during the summit clash.

In addition to this, the governing body has also made a few changes in clause 6.4 of the Playing Condition rule for having an alternative pitch. Assuming the pitch gets damaged, the match officials will take the call if the wicket is good enough to resume play.

Moreover, a call will also be made if a second pitch can be used for the crucial summit clash. The ICC has informed both India and Australia regarding the additional security measures that have been put in place.

Details of clause 6.4 (changing pitch):

6.4.1: The game stands stopped if the umpires determine that it is unreasonable or unsafe to continue playing and inform the match referee.

6.4.2: The on-field umpires and ICC Match referee will consult both captains.

6.4.3: The game will resume only if both captains agree to do so.

6.4.4: If it is decided not to resume play, the on-field umpires will determine whether the existing pitch can be restored and the match can resume from where it was halted in collaboration with the ICC match referee. Given the previous play on the risky field, the ICC match referee must determine whether this repair would unfairly benefit either team.

6.4.5: If it is determined that the old pitch cannot be fixed, the ICC match referee will work with the ICC to investigate possibilities for continuing the match on another pitch at the same location, as long as the ICC is satisfied that the new pitch fulfils the required Test standard.

6.4.6: If it is not possible to resume the match on another pitch at the same venue on any of the match's scheduled days (including the reserve day), the match stands abandoned.

6.4.7: Throughout the above-mentioned decision-making processes, the ICC match referee will keep both captains and the head of the ground authority informed. The head of the ground authority will ensure that public statements are issued in a timely and suitable manner.