International Cricket Council, the Dubai-based body that runs the game across the world, often cops criticism. However, their swift action in deeming the Trent Bridge wicket that witnessed a tame end to the opening India vs England Test last week as “poor” must be commended.

Whether this quick work by the ICC can be attributed to India’s clout in world cricket, one can never say for sure. But quite clearly, the shoe is on the other foot because for years, teams have criticised the sub-continent for poor pitches and have called for venue bans.