Wankhede pitch change ahead of much anticipated World Cup semi-final clash of IND vs NZ

In anticipation of India’s crucial ICC World Cup semi-final against New Zealand at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium, there is a noticeable buzz surrounding a last-minute alteration to the playing surface. The initial pitch selection, meticulously chosen by ICC’s pitch expert Andy Atkinson in collaboration with the BCCI, has reportedly undergone a change.

Initially, a pristine pitch from the Wankhede block was earmarked for this high-stakes encounter. However, recent reports indicate a twist in the narrative—the originally chosen pitch is no longer in contention. Instead, attention is now focused on a wicket that has already seen action twice in this tournament.According to a report from the Daily Mail, allegations suggest that this switch has been made to favor Indian spinners against the Kiwis. A WhatsApp message notifying Indian and ICC officials about the pitch switch claims that pitch No. 6 will be used instead of the initially selected No. 7. Notably, Surface No. 7 was utilized for the England vs South Africa and India vs Sri Lanka matches in the league stage.Following the opening clash between England and New Zealand in Ahmedabad, the subsequent three matches at the venue deviated from the originally designated surface. This prompted Atkinson to express his concerns via email to the ICC.The report indicates that even the pitch intended for the November 19 final has been swapped for a more spin-friendly one. In the aftermath, a blame game unfolded, with the BCCI and Gujarat Cricket Association pointing fingers at each other in response to Atkinson’s inquiry about the responsible party for the change.As reported by the Daily Mail, Atkinson’s email raised questions about whether this would be the first-ever World Cup final with a pitch specifically chosen and prepared at the request of the team management or home nation board hierarchy. It also questioned whether the pitch selection would be unbiased, adhering to the usual manner and chosen based on its suitability for the occasion.