‘Romance’ of Gabba pitch continues in Test

Joel Gould | December 15, 2022

How will the Gabba play in the first Test between Australia and South Africa?

That question will soon be answered but the perspective of Queensland wicketkeeper Jimmy Peirson – who spent 160 overs behind the stumps in the recent Sheffield Shield clash with Western Australia, the last game to be played at the venue – is worth noting.

Australia have lost once at the Gabba in a Test in the last 34 years – to India in 2020-21 – and none of the players in the Proteas squad have played a Test there.

The Shield match earlier this month was played on pitch number one, at the far east of the seven on the centre square. The Test will take place on number four, the middle pitch.

“We lost a day for rain so Arj (curator David Sandurski) and the boys got the wicket ready quite early so it was probably a touch drier and firmer than usual,” Peirson told AAP of the recent pitch conditions.

“On day two it was faster with not as much seam and then as the game went on it probably slowed a touch and was good for batting.

“Arj will probably like to leave it a bit more sporting on day one of the Test where it is greenish in colour with even grass, that typical characteristic.

“It will probably seam on the first morning and as the game goes it will quicken up a bit and be a good cricket wicket.

“Bowlers will always feel like they are in the game because nicks are carrying.

“That’s the romance of the Gabba with it not being a drop-in. It is still the same centre square we have cherished and loved.”

Western Australia speed demon Lance Morris, called into Australia’s extended Test squad, had one ferocious spell on the second day of the Shield clash that showcased what is possible if you bend your back.

He struck Jack Clayton under the armpit which caused him to be out hit wicket, cannoned one short ball into Bryce Street’s helmet that flew to third man for four leg byes and dismissed Peirson with a searing bouncer.

“South Africa with Anrich Nortje, Lungi Ngidi and company who all bowl in the 140 km/h department – and Pat Cummins and all our guys as well – will enjoy it,” Peirson said.

“Pat, who seams the ball, will be hard work and raw pace will be something to sit back and enjoy.”

WA opener Cameron Bancroft (164no off 448 balls) showed that if you get in you can make hay, but a suite of top-six batsmen perished before reaching double figures.

“At the Gabba it is hard to start but if you get 20, 30 or 40 balls into your innings it is a beautiful place to bat,” Peirson said.

“Wickets may come in clumps but there will be the opportunity for batters to dig in.”