WPCA respond to Newlands pitch penalty

Newlands cricket pitchNewlands.

The Western Province Cricket Association have responded to the International Cricket Council’s formal assessment of the pitch used for last week’s second Test between the Proteas and India at Newlands in Cape Town.

The ICC deemed the pitch “unsatisfactory” and allocated a demerit point after the match ended inside four sessions – 23 wickets fell on day one.

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“The WPCA is committed to upholding the highest standards of cricket and ensuring that the playing conditions at Newlands are of the highest possible quality. We respect the concerns raised by the ICC match referee Chris Broad and we take this feedback seriously,” read a statement from the WPCA.

“As a responsible cricketing body, we will work closely with Cricket South Africa to review the match referee’s report thoroughly and identify all areas for improvement.”

The WPCA have received funds from CSA for improvements to Newlands ahead of this season’s edition of the SA20.

“The board of WPCA, with support from CSA, has committed itself to a comprehensive turnaround strategy to address the recent misfortunes at WPCA, which includes restoring Newlands Cricket Ground to its former glory,” added the WPCA.

We appreciate the feedback we have received from our various stakeholders. WPCA is committed to addressing the concerns they have raised, and we remain dedicated to providing an excellent cricketing experience for players and fans alike at Newlands.”

Newlands will host the 2024 SA20 final.

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