Last Updated on 4 years by Charbel Coorey
Chennai Pitch: Divided opinion on Twitter during Test | Is the Chennai pitch for the 2nd Test suitable for Test cricket? Twitter reactions
As India roar back in their ongoing four-match battle with England, another battle took place on social media. Twitter can be known for battles between fans in the football predictions circle, but hardly ever regarding the playing surface. With Ashwin wheeling away in true, brilliant Ashwin fashion, opinion was divided on Twitter regarding the 22 yards where the action takes place.
Former cricketers Mark Waugh and Michael Vaughan led the way in the view that the Chennai pitch isn’t suitable for Test cricket. Both pointed to the fact that any pitch that “explodes” on days one and two doesn’t make for a fair contest between bat and ball, and places too much emphasis on the toss. Many pundits and fans also shared the same view, which will be highlighted in this article.
On the other side of the coin, pundits, fans and former cricketers also were in favour of the Chennai surface, emphasising that Test cricket is a test of ability in all kinds of conditions. In fact, India preparing such a pitch is actually a risk when 1-0 down, as it brings the two teams closer together Also, comparisons were made to green pitches, and why they are widely accepted compared to sharp turners that are often found in the subcontinent.
One argument made is that green pitches often settle down and allow for a good battle between bat and ball. Sharp turners, however, continue to get worse as the Test goes on. Here is a snapshot of the discussion, with both sides presenting their cases with a great deal of vigour.
Which side are you on?
Argument 1: Chennai pitch not suitable
Kevin Pietersen also chimed in, claiming the toss was very crucial in the second Test.
Argument 2: Chennai pitch is fine
Shane Warne led the way in saying that the toss in the first Test was more important than this one. England, who bowled India out for 319, didn’t bowl well enough to restrict India to the 220-230 mark.
As compared to the one-sided second Test, the action on Twitter was intense. It will be interesting to see the ICC’s verdict on this surface, and how the pitches will play in the remainder of the series.
