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Intrigue over green-tinged SCG pitch

3 minute read

Nathan Lyon is likely to have his eye on some cracks underneath a green-tinged SCG pitch that David Warner spotted on day one of the fourth Test.

Nathan Lyon Picture: twitter

Cracks in the SCG pitch have caught the attention of David Warner, who says days four and five of the fourth Test should be very interesting.

The green-tinged deck, coupled with multiple rain delays, ensured it was a cautious start to the game from Australia.

The hosts will resume at 3-126 on Thursday, with Steve Smith and Usman Khawaja at the crease.

Warner (30), Marcus Harris (38) and Marnus Labuschagne (28) got in and out on Wednesday, all edging teasing deliveries after appearing well set.

Pat Cummins described the pitch as a "really good batting wicket" after winning the toss, admitting it had "probably more grass than we normally expect here".

Warner faced 72 deliveries, including the day's first ball that reared off the pitch and struck him on the glove.

The former vice-captain argued the pitch was "a day harder than what it normally would have been".

"That's probably why you saw the ball sort of kiss a little bit more," Warner said.

"I can see some cracks that are underneath that grass surface.

"I don't know what the SpiderCam angle from above shows but definitely, batting first here we need to maximise the first innings.

"Day four, five is going to be very, very interesting and awesome to play."

Express paceman Mark Wood took a different view to Warner, noting he felt it was "a good wicket".

"It sort of slid on quite nicely and it felt quite true. If you're a bit off, then you get punished," Wood said.

"A couple of wickets tomorrow ... it changes the game.

"Especially Steve Smith, he's obviously a huge wicket."