Why has Lord’s dug up its pitch and what comes next?

Lord’s has dug up Pitch Nine after repeated criticism of its playing surfaces, most recently following a difficult England Test against New Zealand in June. The pitch was rated “unsatisfactory” by the ICC, earned the ground a demerit point and renewed concerns that Lord’s surfaces can produce slow, low or unpredictable cricket.

Pitch Nine is one of five central strips used for major matches and will be unavailable until at least 2029. The MCC has brought in outside experts and is adding a third hybrid pitch next spring; it is also beginning work on drop-in pitch trays at the Nursery Ground, with the first due in the coming weeks. These changes may help Lord’s manage its schedule while the square is being improved, but their success will take time to judge.