18 Mar 2009

Antigua ground banned from hosting internationals

6:18 am on 18 March 2009

The International Cricket Council has decided the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua will not be allowed to host international matches for at least 12 months following the pitch fiasco last month.

The second test between the West Indies and England was abandoned after 10 balls when the ground was deemed unfit and dangerous for play.

A third test was hastily arranged at the nearby Antigua Recreation Ground, the old test venue, and the ICC has handed the West Indies Cricket Board an official warning for not preparing the ground effectively.

The sport's governing body has ordered extensive remedial work to be carried out at the stadium, to be monitored by the West Indies board before the ICC conducts an official inspection.