The International Cricket Council on Thursday rescinded a demerit point imposed on Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium after an appeals panel overturned its “Unsatisfactory” pitch rating for the third one-day international between Pakistan and Australia on June 4.
The ICC panel reviewed match footage, the Match Referee’s report and comments from the captains following an appeal by the Pakistan Cricket Board.
While the panel said the Match Referee had followed the relevant guidelines, it concluded that the pitch “did not demonstrate excessive unevenness or spin”.
The demerit point was therefore removed, leaving Gaddafi Stadium with no demerit points on its record.
The panel also overturned a one-point penalty against Canada’s Maple Leaf Cricket Ground in King City, Toronto, for an “Unsatisfactory” rating during the United States-Netherlands match on June 8.
It said the surface was consistent with a satisfactory pitch and did not show excessive unevenness, seam movement or spin.
However, three demerit points imposed after the ground was rated “Unfit” for the Canada-Netherlands match on June 16 will remain.
The panel said the pitch was dangerous and consistent with an “Unfit” rating.
Under ICC regulations, one demerit point is awarded for an “Unsatisfactory” pitch and three for an “Unfit” surface. Points remain active for five years.
A venue reaching six demerit points is suspended from hosting international cricket for 12 months, while 12 points trigger a 24-month suspension.
