A talking point has been ‘steaming the wicket’ over the winter to sterilize it, apparently a technique that’s been regularly utilised at Wimbledon.
No idea if it’s to blame for the bowler-friendly pitch at this test but this video is interesting.
The result of the steaming can be seen from 7:30. Not a pretty sight.
Steam Surface Sterilisation at Lords Cricket Ground – Tillers Turf Talk Ep 130
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