Geelong council says green pitch in Geelong-Footscray clash was prepared with additional moisture due to heavy usage

A green Premier Cricket wicket curated by Geelong council raised eyebrows. Now the council has addressed concerns.

The council has explained the green pitch used in Saturday's match. Picture: Play Cricket

The City of Greater Geelong has addressed concerns around the contentious green wicket used in Geelong’s first grade clash against Footscray, with the council saying it was prepared with “additional moisture” to combat heavy usage over the summer months.

Footscray skittled Geelong for just 145 in its two-day match with quick Ben Roosenboom (5-26) wreaking havoc on a soft, green pitch that was troublesome to bat on early.

The pitch was deemed fit for play by the umpires and both sides pre-match.

The local council is responsible for curating the pitches at Kardinia Park, which has undergone significant centre wicket works in recent months.

Geelong has been pleased with the Kardinia Park wickets overall but it is understood both sides were bemused at the state of Saturday’s pitch, and spectators watching on can be overheard questioning the wicket over the live stream.

Kardinia Park has been used for junior Premier Cricket – the Dowling Shield and Marg Jennings Cup, the latter which Geelong won – and other competitions over the summer and the council’s Executive Director of City Infrastructure James Stirton said steps were taken to prevent cracks forming.

The pitch green pitch used in Geelong's clash with Footscray. Picture: Play Cricket

“The wicket for the match between Geelong and Footscray was deemed fit for play by both teams and umpires prior to the commencement of play,” Stirton said.

“We understand that there have been some concerns about the conditions of the pitch. It is important to note that the pitch experienced heavy usage during the mid-season break, particularly during the Dowling Shield competition, which led to increased wear and reduced grass coverage. To prevent cracking in areas with limited grass, the wicket was prepared with additional moisture.

“We curate the cricket pitches at Kardinia Park, and our experienced and qualified turf team ensures the quality and condition of the ground. With more time for grass coverage before the next match, the quality of the pitch is expected to improve, which we anticipate will result in a better playing surface for future games.”

Victoria Premier Cricket head Darren Anderson said the organisation is well aware of the challenges curators have faced this season.

“We are not prepared to make comment regarding the pitch given we have had one week of play and the weather and other compounding factors that Geelong and the council have experienced this year,” Anderson said.

Footscray will resume at 3/85 next week, 61 runs away from victory.

Originally published as Geelong council says green pitch in Geelong-Footscray clash was prepared with additional moisture due to heavy usage