Despite widespread criticism, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has awarded a 'satisfactory' rating to the cricket pitches in Multan and Rawalpindi, which played a pivotal role in Pakistan's recent 2-1 Test series triumph over England, according to ESPNcricinfo.
The ICC employs a rating system that categorizes pitches from "very good" to "unfit" for international matches. Venues receiving an "unsatisfactory" rating incur one demerit point, while those deemed "unfit" are assigned three demerit points. Accumulating five demerit points within a five-year rolling period results in a venue being barred from hosting international matches for 12 months.
Pakistan's first home Test series win since February 2021 drew significant attention, particularly due to the extensive measures taken to prepare the pitches. The series began in Multan, where the pitch initially showed signs of grass but ultimately became flat. In the first Test, Pakistan scored 556 runs, while England responded with a record-breaking 827/7 declared, featuring exceptional performances by Joe Root (262) and Harry Brook (317). Although the match appeared destined for a draw, Pakistan's collapse in the third innings secured England's historic victory by an innings and 47 runs.
Following an unexpected defeat in the series opener, Pakistan revamped its pitch preparation strategy. A newly formed selection committee, including Aaqib Javed and Aleem Dar, opted to use the same surface in the second Test in Multan. The committee deployed large fans to dry the pitch, enhancing conditions favorable to spin bowlers. This approach was similarly applied in Rawalpindi, a venue traditionally known for its lack of spin, to create uneven bounce and sharp turn early in the Tests.
These adjustments proved effective, as both pitches provided significant assistance to spinners, leading to the dismissal of all 40 England wickets across the second and third Tests. This spin-friendly environment was instrumental in Pakistan’s series victory under the leadership of Shan Masood, marking his first as Test captain.
The ICC’s decision to rate the Multan and Rawalpindi pitches as "satisfactory" underscores the effectiveness of Pakistan’s revised pitch preparation techniques. However, the ICC maintains stringent standards, with venues facing potential suspensions if demerit points accumulate over time.