ICC Rates Perth Ashes Pitch as Very Good After Two-Day Test

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has rated the pitch used for the first Ashes Test in Perth as “very good”, which is the highest possible score in their pitch evaluation system. The rating was officially given by match referee Ranjan Madugalle, who reviewed the playing conditions during the two-day match between Australia and England.

Under the ICC’s four-level pitch rating system, “very good” represents a pitch that offers a fair contest between bat and ball. According to the ICC, pitches of this quality show good carry, limited seam movement, and consistent bounce throughout the match. These elements help ensure that both bowlers and batters have equal opportunities to perform well.

The first Ashes Test in Perth was one of the shortest in history, finishing inside just two days. Even though the match ended quickly, it attracted a huge crowd. More than 101,514 spectators attended the game across the two days, showing how strong the excitement was for the Ashes series. On the opening day alone, 19 wickets fell for a total of 305 runs, creating a dramatic start. On the second day, Australia chased down England’s score of 205 in only a single session, securing victory with a dominant batting performance.

James Allsop, Chief of Cricket at Cricket Australia, responded to the ICC’s evaluation by saying that although the match ended much earlier than expected, the quality of cricket was exceptional. He acknowledged that fans with tickets for Days 3 and 4 were disappointed, as they did not get to watch any action. However, he highlighted that the rapid pace of the match and the high-quality performances made the Test extremely memorable.

Allsop explained that the pitch rating proved that Perth Stadium had provided a fair surface. He noted that both teams displayed brilliant fast bowling, which played a major role in the short duration of the game. The contest moved so quickly because bowlers from both sides delivered powerful spells that kept the game intense from start to finish.

He further stated that although some supporters missed out on live cricket due to the early finish, the match produced several exciting moments that captured the attention of fans watching both at the stadium and on television. According to him, the thrilling nature of the match would likely inspire many young fans to take up cricket, especially during the summer season.

The Perth pitch has often been known for helping fast bowlers, and this Test proved that reputation true once again. The consistent bounce and steady pace allowed bowlers to attack aggressively, which led to frequent wickets and quick changes in momentum. Despite this, the pitch was not considered unfair or overly difficult for batters. Travis Head’s strong innings and several smaller partnerships showed that runs could still be scored with careful play.

The ICC’s “very good” rating confirms that the pitch was well-balanced and suitable for Test cricket. It rewarded skills from both teams and did not favour any particular side too heavily. This rating is important for future matches at Perth Stadium, as it reinforces the venue’s reputation for producing high-quality pitches.

As the Ashes series continues, the dramatic start in Perth has already set the tone for what could be an exciting battle between England and Australia. Fans now look forward to the next Tests, hoping for more thrilling moments, even if they last longer than two days.