ICC approves portable pitches for Tests

WELLINGTON, FEBRUARY 11: Cricket’s governing body (ICC) has given its blessings to the use of portable pitches for Tests. ICC approved portable pitches following a trial game between New Zealand and the West Indies in Christchurch late last year.

“This will give us tremendous flexibility as cricket in the major stadia in New Zealand so often comes into conflict with rugby, particularly in October and February-March,” said NZC Chief Executive Chris Doig.

The portable pitch is grown in a special tray off-site and is lifted by crane on to the playing area where it replaces another tray of normal playing-surface turf.