Indore's Holkar Stadium pitch draws severe criticism; BCCI calls for reassessment

In the recent Border-Gavaskar Championship, the 3rd test match between India and Australia was held at the Holkar Stadium in Indore between March 1-3. However, the pitch was deemed to be spin dominating and both teams struggled to score above 200 runs during the 3-day long game.

After Australia won the match, the ICC match referee, Chris Broad, assessed the Holkar stadium pitch and sanctioned a 'poor' rating owing to several criteria. The BCCI has lodged an official request with the ICC to review the rating given to the pitch at the Holkar Stadium following the 3rd test match.

Reportedly, the match referee stated that Indore pitch was very dry and did not provide a balance between bat and ball, favouring spinners from the start of the match.

In addition, the Holkar Stadium has been handed three demerit points which will remain active for a five-year rolling period. If it accumulates five of the demerit points, the pitch will be banned from hosting international cricket matches for 12 months.

Notably, BCCI has recently sent a formal letter to the ICC requesting a reconsideration of Chris Broad's assessment. The BCCI officials believe that the verdict can be reevaluated as 'below average' with a review. The ICC has formed a two-member committee to look into the BCCI's objection.