Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Mohsin Shaikh
Reports of a pitch controversy have emerged just hours before the highly anticipated World Cup semi-final clash between India and New Zealand at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium on Wednesday
According to a report by Indian Express, sources claim that the Indian Cricket management sought a 'slow' pitch for the semi-final, leading to alleged modifications, including the removal of grass to favour Indian spinners
Another controversial report in the Daily Mail, a British newspaper, claims that the semi-final will be played on a pitch used twice, specifically chosen to assist India's spin-bowling unit, deviating from the original plan of using a fresh pitch
The same report also suggested that if India advances to the finals, a slow pitch is anticipated at Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium. Allegations question the fairness of pitch selection in favour of the home team
A WhatsApp message reportedly circulated among over 50 BCCI and ICC officials, indicating that the semi-final match has been moved to pitch No.6, raising eyebrows and further fuelling the controversy
The Daily Mail report levels serious charges against ICC pitch consultant Andy Atkinson, claiming he grew frustrated due to inconclusive answers about pitch preparations, especially for the final
The controversy takes a new turn as matters worsen, with reports stating that the ICC events' manager informed Andy Atkinson that the India-Pakistan fixture took place on a different pitch than scheduled, adding fuel to the fire
In an email accessed by the British newspaper, Andy Atkinson speculates about the possibility of the ICC Cricket World Cup final featuring a pitch chosen and prepared to the stipulation of the home team management
The controversy surrounding the pitch at Wankhede Stadium adds an extra layer of scrutiny to the highly anticipated semi-final clash, creating an atmosphere of uncertainty and debate ahead of the crucial encounter