Former India coach Ravi Shastri has raised concerns over the pitch at Newlands, Cape Town, labelling it ‘dangerous’ after a record-breaking 23 wickets fell on the opening day of the Test match between South Africa and India.
The first day of the Test witnessed an extraordinary turn of events as South Africa, opting to bat first, were bowled out for a mere 55 runs. India’s reply initially appeared promising, but a dramatic batting collapse saw six wickets fall in 11 balls without a run scored.
Shastri’s Verdict
Speaking to Star Sports, Ravi Shastri did not hold back in his assessment of the Newlands pitch. “The match referee will be looking at it very closely. 23 wickets don’t fall in a day. Probably dangerous,” he stated. Shastri’s comments echo his past experiences of facing questions about pitches when India hosted Test matches.
The debate surrounding the Newlands pitch raises questions about whether it was the pitch conditions or poor batting that led to the extraordinary wicket fall. Shastri emphasized that there weren’t many unplayable deliveries, and most dismissals were due to edges rather than an inherently challenging pitch.
Pollock Agrees
Former South African cricketer and broadcaster Shaun Pollock concurred with Shastri’s assessment, adding, “Yeah, you can’t give it a good rating.” Pollock expressed doubt about the pitch changing much, even with the use of heavy rollers.
As the second day of the Test approached, expectations were high regarding the impact of heavy rollers on the pitch. However, Pollock expressed scepticism, predicting that the game might conclude on Day 2.
Despite concerns over the pitch, the Test match reached a dramatic conclusion, with India
securing a seven-wicket victory on the second day. Jasprit Bumrah’s remarkable bowling performance (6 for 61) paved the way for India’s win, levelling the two-match series 1-1. Mohammed Siraj, who picked up 6 for 15 in the first innings, was named the Player of the Match.
Shortest Test with Historic Moments
The Test match at Newlands, lasting just 107 overs, became the shortest Test ever to produce a result. It also marked India’s first Test win at Newlands in seven attempts. Aiden Markram’s stunning hundred and Dean Elgar’s retirement added historic moments despite the pitch controversy.
As the cricketing world reflects on the Newlands Test, the pitch conditions continue to be a topic of debate, emphasizing the delicate balance between challenging surfaces and player safety.
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