Share

Steve Smith queries state of Oz pitches

Sydney - Australia cricket captain Steve Smith chided curators on Friday, saying pitches for his team's home series against New Zealand, the West Indies and India have been too batting-friendly.

Smith set aside self-interest - he has scored more than 1 400 runs in all forms of cricket since December - to suggest grounds staff at the WACA in Perth and the Gabba in Brisbane should do their best to restore traditional pace and bounce.

In Australia's six Test matches against New Zealand and the West Indies this summer, teams surpassed 500 five times and four limited-overs internationals against India have produced more than 2 500 runs.

Smith said he was disappointed with pitches at the WACA and Gabba and "it'd be great if that (pace and bounce) was brought back. I think that'll make it a little bit more even between bat and ball."

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should the Proteas pick Faf du Plessis for the T20 World Cup in West Indies and the United States in June?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Faf still has a lot to give ...
67% - 912 votes
No! It's time to move on ...
33% - 441 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE