Year’s ban for Antigua stadium

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has informed the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) that no more international cricket can take place at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua until extensive remedial work is carried out and it passes an inspection by the ICC.

Year's ban for Antigua stadium

In February, the ground was the scene of a Test match between the West Indies and England that lasted just 10 balls before being abandoned because of a chewed up outfield that was deemed dangerous to fielders. The ICC also said in a statement that the WICB had been given an official warning for not preparing the ground effectively for what was to have been the second Test match between the two sides.

"Appropriate work must now be carried out and monitored by the WICB before the inspection can take place," the statement said, adding that at least a year would have to pass before this could be carried out. "The decision is in accordance with the ICC Pitch and Outfield Monitoring Process, which was introduced in 2006 to ensure international cricket was played in conditions of a suitably high standard," the statement continued.

Detailing the decision, ICC General Manager - Cricket, David Richardson said: "We have come to the decision that the outfield was, in fact, unfit for play and of an unacceptable standard for international cricket. The abandoned Test match was an embarrassment to the local authorities in Antigua, to West Indies cricket in general and to the international game as a whole.

"The image of the game and the integrity of our sport cannot afford to have such farcical scenes play out as they did on the first morning of the match. Steps must be taken to ensure that it never happens again."

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