Stumping the bookmaker Pitch condition is key issue
The pitch has more impact on the outcome of a cricket match than any other sport. It can decide which team has the better prospects, which bowlers are most effective – and, in a Test match, even the chances it will end in a victory for either side or a draw. Pitches can be prepared so that the game will almost certainly finish in a positive result, not a draw. In the Asian subcontinent, the heat can produce pitches that quickly crumble and become dusty and so tend to be an advantage to spin bowlers. Poorly prepared wickets can also bounce unpredictably, meaning that batsmen cannot get in a reliable position to play the ball. In such conditions, Test matches are likely to end well within four days.
In English conditions, pitches that are green and retain moisture tend to favour seam bowling, making draws unlikely. Pitches can also be prepared for favourable batting conditions, maximising the chances of teams making large first-innings totals, and the match ending in a draw. Slow and low pitches, achieved by the groundsman using the roller extensively, offer minimal assistance for fast bowlers or spinners.
Awareness of how a pitch is likely to play could virtually guarantee a huge profit for match-fixers. If they know a pitch is likely to help bowlers, they can be almost certain a Test match will be over well within the allotted five days – and so bet against the draw, thereby ensuring a profit whichever team wins. If a pitch is known to offer scant assistance to bowlers, fixers can bet a draw in advance.