What are the ICC pitch ratings and how does the system work?

The International Cricket Council (ICC) uses a rating system to review the quality of the pitch and outfield after every Test match, one-day international and T20 international.

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The pitch is the rectangular central strip of a cricket field between the two wickets, and the outfield is the area that surrounds it.

The ICC evaluates pitches and outfields for all international matches, rating them on a scale from very good to unfit, based off the findings of the match referee.

They are tasked with completing a report at the end of play, analysing factors, such as bounce, ball movement and pitch deterioration to determine if a pitch is: Very good, Satisfactory, Unsatisfactory or Unfit.

The match referee also assesses the quality of the outfield - deeming it to be satisfactory, unsatisfactory or unfit.

The ICC deems a very good Test pitch to have good carry, limited seam movement, consistent bounce, an acceptable level of turn early in the game, and should demonstrate natural wear.

A satisfactory pitch has differing carry, bounce or spin throughout the Test.

However, a pitch that does not allow an even contest between bat and ball is deemed unsatisfactory. That means it either favours the batters too much, or overly favours the bowlers.

A pitch deemed to be dangerous because it compromise the safety of players, is graded as unfit.