ICC takes U-turn on demerit point issued to Gaddafi Stadium pitch for Pakistan vs Australia ODI

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has taken a U-turn on the demerit point it issued to the Gaddafi Stadium pitch, used for the third ODI played between Pakistan and Australia on June 4. An ICC appeals panel has rescinded the demerit point for what the governing body initially thought was an "unsatisfactory" wicket at the iconic venue for the series decider.

The pitch made instant headlines for its uneven bounce and turn as Pakistan bowled Australia out for just 157 in 42 overs. Skipper Shaheen Shah Afridi was the pick of the Pakistan bowlers, claiming a three-wicket haul. Spinners Abrar Ahmed and Shadab Khan claimed two wickets apiece.

In reply, Pakistan lurched their way to 161 in 41.5 overs, losing as many as six wickets. Spinners claimed five of the six wickets which fell during the chase, with Matthew Kuhnemann returning figures of 3/38. Matt Renshaw and Matt Short claimed one wicket each with their off-breaks. Notably, it was the first time the Gaddafi Stadium was handed a demerit point.

"The demerit point imposed on Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium following an unsatisfactory rating for the third Men’s ODI between Pakistan and Australia on 4 June has been rescinded as the panel felt that while the guidelines of the ICC Pitch and Outfield Monitoring Process had been followed by the Match Referee, the pitch did not demonstrate excessive unevenness or spin," the ICC's media release read.

The Gaddafi Stadium is set to host several international fixtures over the next few months. It will host the second of the two-match Test series between Pakistan and Sri Lanka, starting November 17.

It will also play host to four matches of an ODI tri-series, including the final, involving the hosts, England and Sri Lanka. The tri-series holds significant importance in Pakistan's prep for the ODI World Cup 2027.