SCG green-top under scrutiny following MCG fallout

The Australian Prime Minister’s New Year’s reception featured more talk about cricket pitches than usual, with requests for a “flat pitch” in the final Ashes Test. Those requests would have caused concern had anyone seen the SCG surface three days out from the Test.

The pitch was remarkably green—so green it blended into the outfield. This draws immediate attention after the MCG pitch, which had 10mm of grass, produced a two-day Test earlier this summer.

SCG chief curator Adam Lewis is under scrutiny. Last summer, his grassy pitch led to a two-and-a-half day Test against India. On Thursday, he was seen in a long discussion with Venues NSW head David Gallop. Other Australian cricket officials are expected to visit or advise on the pitch in the next 48 hours.

Pressure is on to produce a pitch that delivers a competitive, longer Test match. Recent first-class cricket at the SCG has been low-scoring:

• The 2021 Test against India saw no team exceed 185 in any innings.
• A Sheffield Shield match in February 2023 had team totals of 238, 182, 174, and 154.
• In November 2023, NSW was bowled out for 128 and 125 against Victoria.
• The trend has been that only the team batting first scores heavily, as seen when NSW made 471 against Queensland in December.

All signs point to the fifth Ashes Test following a similar pattern unless the surface changes dramatically by Saturday. Cool Sydney weather, with mid-20s temperatures before expected rain, complicates pitch preparation. Experts warn that simply shaving grass may not solve the issue.

Even spinner Todd Murphy faced questions about the pitch as he awaits a potential Test debut. His chances appear slim if the grass remains. Every blade will be scrutinized as curators nationwide watch for the final 22-yard strip to be revealed. Everyone, including the Prime Minister, will be watching—and having their say.