ICC Reviews Pitch Ratings: Gaddafi Stadium's Demerit Point Rescinded

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced updates on pitch ratings following appeals from the Pakistan Cricket Board and Cricket Canada. Notably, the demerit point for Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium has been rescinded, while the Maple Leaf Cricket Ground retains three demerit points due to an 'Unfit' rating. This decision comes after a thorough review of match footage and referee reports. The ICC's findings highlight the importance of pitch conditions in maintaining the integrity of the game. For more details on the rulings and their implications, read the full article.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 20, 2026, 17:26 IST

ICC's Decision on Pitch Ratings

On Thursday, the International Cricket Council (ICC) revealed its verdicts regarding three pitch ratings after appeals from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and Cricket Canada (CC) concerning demerit points assigned for matches conducted in June. The ICC Appeals Panel made its decisions based on match footage, reports from Match Referees, and comments from team captains, as stated in an ICC media release.

Demerit Point Rescinded for Gaddafi Stadium

The demerit point assigned to Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium, which received an 'Unsatisfactory' rating for the third Men's ODI between Pakistan and Australia on June 4, has been overturned. The panel concluded that while the Match Referee adhered to the ICC Pitch and Outfield Monitoring Process, the pitch did not exhibit excessive unevenness or spin.

Maple Leaf Cricket Ground Rulings

The Maple Leaf Cricket Ground in King City, Toronto, was rated 'Unsatisfactory' for the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup League 2 match between the USA and the Netherlands on June 8, and received an 'Unfit' rating for a subsequent match in the same series between Canada and the Netherlands on June 16.

The Appeals Panel determined that the Match Referee had followed the guidelines, and the pitch condition on June 8 was deemed satisfactory, showing no excessive unevenness, seam movement, or spin. Consequently, the demerit point was rescinded. However, the three demerit points for the 'Unfit' rating on June 16 remain, as the panel found the pitch condition to be dangerous.

Current Demerit Point Status

As it stands, the Maple Leaf Cricket Ground holds three demerit points, while the Gaddafi Stadium has none.