Less then few hours to go for the 2026 T20 World Cup final between India and New Zealand in Ahmedabad. All eyes are on the pitch at the Narendra Modi Stadium. Remember, India's alleged request for a slow black soil surface had backfired during their previous final at this venue, the 2023 ODI World Cup clash against Australia in November 2023.
This time, there have reportedly been no special requests but reports have stated that a mixed soil pitch will be rolled out for the summit clash on Sunday (March 8). What does this mean? The venue has plenty of red soil surfaces and black soil surfaces, but this big game will have a pitch that has a mixture of red soil and black soil.
Historically, mixed soil pitches usually have a high percentage of red soil when compared to black soil. While ratios vary, the average distribution is somewhere around 70-30 or 65-35 in favour of red soil. Generally, such pitches are known to be pacy with consistent bounce, thereby allowing the batters to enjoy themselves.
Red soil pitches are historically known to be good for batting while black soil tracks are generally on the slower side with inconsistent bounce also on the cards. However, the one key aspect of black soil pitches is that they seldom deteriorate over the course of a white-ball game. Also, when dew comes down, batting second on a black-soil pitch becomes extremely easy compared to batting first.
Red soil pitches could slow down just a fraction over the course of the game although it would still be good for batting. The reason for a mixed soil pitch is to ensure that the batting-friendly nature remains through the course of the 40 overs. The intention is to ensure a run fest which means that batters can hit through the line without worrying about any tricks from the surface.
