Overview
- Match referee Jeff Crowe awarded the MCG one demerit point, judging the Boxing Day surface too bowler-friendly after 36 wickets fell in two days with no half-centuries, while Perth’s two-day opener was rated very good.
- The Melbourne Cricket Club accepted responsibility for the MCG pitch, with chief curator Matt Page saying extra grass was left for expected heat and acknowledging the wicket bounced more than anticipated after pre-Test rain and covers.
- Cricket Australia faces significant revenue losses from the shortened matches and ticket refunds, with published estimates ranging from more than $10 million to about $15 million across Perth and Melbourne.
- Media-rights expert Colin Smith says short Tests force major advertiser makegoods and could depress future broadcast valuations, noting Seven is most exposed to lost commercial spots, with Foxtel and Kayo also affected.
- Abbreviated finishes have dashed hopes of an Australian Test-summer attendance record and left fans and casual event staff out of pocket, as scrutiny on pitch preparation now shifts to the SCG for the series finale.