World Cup's integrity questioned as India accused of doctoring pitch ahead of semi-final

India will today face New Zealand in the game, which will be played at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai in what is a repeat of Old Trafford, 2019. The game is expected to be an absolute cracker as these two teams have had some interesting battles over the last few years. However, just ahead of the encounter against New Zealand, the Indian Cricket Team has been accused of changing the conditions of the pitch.

This decision, made without formal sanction, has sparked widespread criticism and raised serious concerns about the integrity of the tournament. It has been learnt that the game which was to be played on a fresh pitch, will now be played on a used surface.

Reports also suggest that the home side has asked for a slow surface to be prepared as they have done remarkably well on such pitches. The Indian management has requested for most of the grass to be shaved off, potentially to reduce the threat that they face from the likes of Trent Boult and Tim Southee.

India are enjoying an unbeaten run in ODI World Cup 2023

At the Old Trafford in 2019, India's top-order was destroyed by Matt Henry and Boult as the duo revelled in conditions that were extremely favourable for swing and seam. India went on to lose the game, crashing out of the tournament despite having a sensational run in the pool stage. The pitch switch now proves that the team is indeed desperate to ensure that the pitch doesn't play a part this time around. 

Coming to cricket, India played phenomenally well in the group stage, winning all nine games dominantly. New Zealand on the other hand, started well but lost their way at the mid-way stage before just doing enough to make it to the semi-finals. India will be looking to continue the good work and notch up their tenth consecutive victory while the Kiwis, led by Kane Williamson, will be determined to deal another knockout blow to Rohit Sharma and Co.