A significant controversy erupted when a British news outlet published a report claiming that the BCCI influenced the ICC to allow the use of a previously used pitch for the India vs. New Zealand first semifinal of the ICC World Cup 2023 in Mumbai on November 15.

The Daily Mail UK alleged that the BCCI altered the playing surface for their team’s semi-final without ICC authorization, with the intention of favoring India.

However, ICC Spokesperson issuing a statement denied the accusation.

“Changes to planned pitch rotations are common towards the end of an event of this length, and has already happened a couple of times. This change was made on the recommendation of the venue curator in conjunction with our host. The ICC independent pitch consultant was apprised of the change and has no reason to believe the pitch won’t play well” ICC Spokesperson said.