London, United Kingdom – Web Desk: The historic Lord’s Cricket Ground pitch has come under intense scrutiny during the ongoing England vs New Zealand Test match, with former cricketers and commentators questioning its quality and consistency.
After 33 wickets fell in the first two days, the surface has been criticised for uneven bounce and unpredictable movement, with several deliveries keeping unusually low. Concerns have also been raised that the pitch could face scrutiny from the International Cricket Council (ICC).
England batter Jacob Bethell was dismissed off a delivery from New Zealand pacer Matt Henry that stayed significantly low, prompting strong reactions from commentators and former players.
Former Australia women’s cricketer Mel Jones said batters “cannot do anything” against such deliveries and warned that New Zealand could face similar challenges in the fourth innings. Ex-England pacer Stuart Broad said Bethell had “no chance” on the ball, while commentator Michael Atherton highlighted inconsistency in bounce and increased LBW risks.
Former England captain Nasser Hussain also criticised the surface, saying the central pitch area at Lord’s lacked quality and required improvement.
Match Situation
England scored 140 in their first innings, while New Zealand replied with 113, conceding a 27-run deficit. England then posted 226 in the second innings, setting a target of 254 for the visitors. At stumps on day three, New Zealand were 36 for 3, needing 182 more runs to win.
