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The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken a significant step towards boosting its World Test Championship (WTC) campaign by appointing Australian pitch curator Tony Hemming as their new head curator. This move aims to address the persistent issue of flat, batting-friendly pitches that have plagued Pakistan’s home games, resulting in a string of drawn matches.
Seeking WTC Glory Through Home Advantage
Pakistan currently finds itself in a precarious position in the WTC standings, occupying a spot in the middle of the pack. To have a shot at reaching the coveted final, securing victories on home soil is paramount. However, the lack of assistance for bowlers on Pakistani pitches has created a scenario where high-scoring draws become the norm, hindering their progress in the championship.
Enter Tony Hemming: An Experienced Hand
With this concern in mind, the PCB has brought in the highly regarded Hemming on a two-year contract. Hemming boasts a wealth of experience, having overseen pitch preparation at renowned Australian grounds like Melbourne, Perth, and Hobart. His international expertise includes a stint as the head curator at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in the UAE, a position he held from 2007 to 2017.
Hemming’s immediate task will be to curate pitches for Pakistan’s upcoming crucial home series against Bangladesh and England, both pivotal fixtures in their WTC journey. He will also be responsible for preparing pitches for the 2025 Champions Trophy held in Pakistan.
Echoes of Discontent and Calls for Change
The need for a shift in pitch strategy has been resonating for some time. Former New Zealand cricketer Scott Styris emphasized the critical role of winning home games in the WTC:
“With WTC, you must win your home games to have any chance of making it to the final… The difference is the fast bowlers and Pakistan has the depth.” (Source: The Indian Express)
Even within the PCB, voices like former chairman Ramiz Raja criticized the Rawalpindi pitch in 2022, calling it “living in the dark ages” and “embarrassing” for a nation known for its fast-bowling prowess.
A Turning Point for Pakistan Cricket?
The appointment of Tony Hemming signals the PCB’s commitment to addressing the issue of pitch quality and fostering a more balanced contest between bat and ball. With Hemming’s expertise and a renewed focus on creating pitches with pace and bounce, Pakistan hopes to transform their home advantage into a springboard for WTC glory. Only time will tell if this gamble pays off, but one thing’s for sure: Pakistan cricket fans are eager to witness a more thrilling brand of Test cricket on home soil.
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