ICC keeps close watch on Sri Lanka pitches ahead of T20 World Cup

2026-02-01 - 06:39

The ICC is paying close attention to the matches to be held in Sri Lanka during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, which begins next week, it is reported. The ICC’s focus is particularly on the pitches at the R. Premadasa Stadium, the SSC Ground and the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, where matches are scheduled to be played. According to reports, this attention has been prompted by pressure being exerted on pitch curators at the respective venues by various parties during matches held in Sri Lanka. It has been reported to the ICC that such interference places unnecessary pressure on the duties of neutral pitch curators. It is also understood that much of this pressure comes from the coach. As a result, reports say the ICC is maintaining special oversight over pitch preparation at Sri Lankan venues during the World Cup tournament. Generally, pitch preparation at an ICC tournament is carried out under the full supervision of a pitch expert appointed by the ICC. Ensuring the preparation of neutral pitches that do not favour any team is the responsibility of the ICC.