T20 World Cup 2024: Ponting Warns of Lower Scores, Slower Pitches

T20 World Cup 2024: Ponting Advises Lowering Expectations on Scores

Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has urged teams and batters to adjust their expectations for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024, citing the likelihood of slower pitches in the West Indies. Ponting believes that the high-scoring totals witnessed in the recent IPL 2024 may not be replicated in the World Cup, especially during the latter stages.

Ponting's comments stem from the recent low-scoring match between Sri Lanka and South Africa in New York, where Sri Lanka was bowled out for 77. The match featured a high number of dot balls, highlighting the challenges batters may face on the drop-in pitches used at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium.

Ponting emphasized that the day-time conditions in New York contributed to the ball swinging and seaming, making it difficult for batters to score freely. He advised teams to adjust their strategies and lower their expectations on scores, particularly in the early stages of the tournament.

The ICC's decision to build a cricket stadium from scratch in New York and install drop-in pitches has raised concerns about the playing conditions. Head curator Damian Hough has stated his intention to create a balanced contest between bat and ball, which may result in slower pitches.

Ponting believes that the pitches in the West Indies, which will host the Super Eights and knockout matches, could also become slower towards the end of the tournament. He noted that the lack of recent cricket on many of the Caribbean venues may have affected the preparation of the wickets.

India captain Rohit Sharma echoed Ponting's sentiments, acknowledging that the New York pitch did not appear conducive to high scores. He emphasized the need for teams to adapt quickly and adjust their game plans accordingly.

Ponting's advice serves as a reminder that the T20 World Cup 2024 will present different challenges compared to the high-scoring IPL. Teams and batters will need to adjust their expectations and strategies to succeed in the tournament's unique conditions.

Tags: #T20WorldCup2024, #RickyPonting, #LowerExpectations, #SlowerPitches, #NewYork