ICC rates Windsor Park pitch 'average' used in WI vs IND 1st Test, 2023

ICC has rated Windsor Park pitch that was used during India's first test against West Indies in 2023.

West Indies hosted India for the opening test of their series at Windsor Park in Roseau, Dominica, in July 2023. However, the focus soon shifted from the thrilling on-field action to the pitch itself. The International Cricket Council (ICC) found itself in the midst of a debate surrounding the quality of the playing surface. Initially deemed "below average" by match referee Jeff Crowe, this pitch's rating could have had significant consequences.

ICC consistently striving to maintain high standards. A "below average" rating for a pitch can lead to demerit points for the hosting venue. This rating also opens the door for West Indies cricket to appeal the decision while addressing concerns about the pitch's substandard conditions.

During the test match, Windsor Park pitch lived up to its reputation. It proved to be slow and conducive to spin, creating an intriguing battle between bat and ball. In the first innings, West Indies struggled, managing only 150 runs before being dismissed. Ravichandran Ashwin led the charge for India, claiming five crucial wickets, while Ravindra Jadeja chipped in with three. In contrast, India's top-order batsmen, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rohit Sharma, shone, putting up an impressive partnership that yielded 171 and 103 runs, respectively.

'Average' rating given by ICC

Indian bowlers continued to dominate in the second innings, with Ashwin producing an exceptional performance, taking 7 for 71. This superb showing by Indian team led them to a resounding victory by an innings and 141 runs, culminating in a match that lasted only three days.

Adding to the pitch controversy, the second Test held at the Queens Park Oval in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, also received an "average" rating from the ICC. Unfortunately, the match ended in a rain-marred draw, leaving cricket enthusiasts pondering the impact of pitch conditions on the outcome.