The recently concluded ODI World Cup final at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad stirred debate as the International Cricket Council (ICC) labeled the pitch an “average.” Meanwhile, match referee Andy Pycroft praised the outfield as “very good.” Australia clinched victory in the final, triumphing over India by six wickets on a sluggish pitch.

Opting to bowl, India posted a total of 240 in 50 overs. Australia successfully chased the target in 43 overs, with Travis Head’s impressive 120-ball 137. The pitch ratings for India’s league matches against South Africa, England, Pakistan and Australia were consistently labeled as ‘average’ by the ICC.

The Wankhede Stadium pitch, where India faced New Zealand in the semifinals, received a ‘good’ rating. Reports hinted at a pitch switch before the match, raising questions about using a used surface instead of a fresh one.

The ICC also deemed the Eden Gardens pitch in Kolkata, hosting the second semifinal between Australia and South Africa, as “average.” Despite a low-scoring match, former India pacer Javagal Srinath gave a positive “very good” rating to the outfield at Eden Gardens.