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MCC rebuilds controversial pitch at Lord's after ICC punishment

Lord’s Cricket Ground has launched a major overhaul of its Pitch 9 following a damning ICC demerit point after England’s Test against New Zealand in June 2026. The pitch, one of five central strips used for international matches, was heavily criticized for delivering erratic bounce and excessive seam movement, contributing to a record 40 wickets falling in just 166 overs—including 24 through bowled or lbw dismissals.

Match referee Andy Pycroft rated it unsatisfactory, prompting the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) to ground the pitch for reconstruction over the next two to three seasons. The MCC’s seven-point action plan, led by chair Mark Nicholas, now includes extended preparation periods for future high-profile fixtures, such as Ashes Tests, and a trial of hybrid pitches—comprising 95% natural turf and 5% synthetic material—to improve consistency and recovery.

Some smaller matches may temporarily relocate to Wormsley’s Sir Paul Getty’s Ground to ease scheduling pressures during the rebuild, marking a shift in Lord’s long-term pitch strategy.

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