MCG curator in a 'state of shock'

QUICK: SECOND TWO-DAY TEST IN THIS ASHES SERIES >>> Governing body estimates loss at more than $6.7 million.

- 

Melbourne Cricket Ground head curator Matt Page said yesterday he was in a “state of shock” watching the carnage unfold during the two-day fourth Ashes Test which has left Cricket Australia facing millions of dollars in revenue shortfall.

Page and his team left 10 millimetres of grass on the wicket, providing fast bowlers with excessive seam movement and bounce which made batting treacherous.

Thirty-six wickets tumbled in 142 overs, 20 on the first day, and the game was all over in the evening session of day two as England won by four wickets for their first victory in Australia since January 2011.

More than 90 000 fans were expected for day three and many more for days four and five.

But with ticket sales having to be refunded, Cricket Australia faces another big financial hit after the Ashes series opener in Perth also ended within two days.