How Does the ICC Give Pitch and Outfield Rating for Test, ODI and T20 International? Explained

In cricket, the quality of the pitch and outfield greatly affects the outcome of the match.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) evaluates these aspects after every Test, One-Day International (ODI) and Twenty20 International (T20I) match.

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The pitch and outfield are assessed by ICC match referees, giving ratings such as very good, good, average, below average, poor or unsuitable.

This feedback helps organizers prepare better playing fields for future competitions.

If the pitch or outfield is rated below average or worse, the venue may receive points deductions, which may result in sanctions if standards do not improve.

In this article we take a closer look at the ICC’s ratings process, the criteria used and the impact on venues and teams.

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What are pitching and fielding ratings in cricket?

In cricket, the Pitch and Field Rating System is an important framework established by the International Cricket Council (ICC) to assess the quality of playing surfaces during international matches.

Not only does this system help maintain standards, but it also holds motherboards accountable for the conditions they provide.

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pitch level

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As of November 2023, the ICC has simplified its referral rating system, which now consists of four main ratings:

• Very Good: Indicates a pitch that has good carry, limited seam movement and consistent bounce, allowing for a balanced game between batsmen and bowlers.
• Satisfactory: A combination of previously classified “Good” and “Fair” indicating that the playing surface is acceptable.
• Unsatisfactory: This rating is given when the pitch fails to provide fair play between bat and ball, often resulting in one side being over-assisted.
• Unsuitable: The lowest rating indicating serious problems that make the course dangerous or unfit for play.

Previously, the system included six ratings: very good, good, average, below average, poor and unsuitable. The changes are intended to simplify assessments and reduce controversy over ratings.

Point deduction system

The ICC operates a points system associated with these ratings:

• Unsatisfactory recommendation: 1 point
• Unsuitable pitch: 3 points deducted

The points are accumulated over five years; if a venue reaches five points, it faces a penalty of being barred from hosting international matches for a year.

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outfield rating

Outfield ratings have been simplified into three categories:

• satisfy
• Not satisfied
• Not suitable

Similar to pitch ratings, these classifications help assess the quality of the outfield and ensure it meets international standards.

Importance of Ratings

• Ratings serve multiple purposes:
• They provide feedback to the host committee for future pitch preparations.
• They help maintain competitive balance during games.
• They may result in sanctions being imposed on venues that consistently provide substandard conditions.

The match referee evaluates the pitch after the match based on established guidelines and professional judgement. The results are announced to increase transparency in cricket governance.

The International Cricket Federation’s pitch and outfield rating system is vital to ensuring cricket is played in fair and safe conditions, reflecting the integrity of the sport.

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What are the criteria for pitch and outfield ratings?

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The ICC uses a rating system to evaluate pitches and outfields, classifying them into four categories: very good, satisfactory, unsatisfactory and unsuitable. Each category has specific criteria that guide evaluation.

pitch rating scale

very good:

• Provides good carrying capacity and consistent bounce.
• There was limited seam movement early in the game.
• The amount of spin is acceptable for spinners and natural wear will respond to spin later in the game.

satisfy:

• Basically meet the expectations of competitive competition.
• There may be some inconsistencies, but nothing that will significantly favor the batsmen or bowlers.

Not satisfied:

• Exhibits excessive seam movement or uneven bounce at any stage.
• Clearly favoring one side, resulting in an imbalanced game.
• There may be signs of deterioration affecting playability.

Not suitable for:

• Considered dangerous or unfit for play.
• May include extreme conditions such as excessive cracks, moisture, or other factors that compromise player safety.

Outfield rating standards

satisfy:

• Provides a safe and playable surface for fielding and running.
• Generally well maintained with minimal hazards.

Not satisfied:

• Showing signs of poor maintenance, such as uneven surfaces or overgrown grass, may impede play.

Not suitable for:

• A dangerous situation that could result in injury to a player or seriously affect the game.
• These include problems such as standing water or hard, uneven patches.

The ratings system is part of the International Cricket Federation’s efforts to ensure fair play and accountability by member committees regarding on-field and outfield conditions during international matches.

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