The International Cricket Council (ICC) has rated the Perth pitch used in the first Ashes Test as 'very good', despite the match ending in less than two days and drawing widespread criticism online. The game, one of the shortest Tests ever played in Australia, saw only 847 balls bowled before Australia defeated England by chasing 205 runs in just 29 overs. Match referee Ranjan Madugalle stated that the pitch offered consistent bounce, minimal seam movement, and fair balance between bat and ball. Cricket Australia’s chief of cricket, James Allsop, supported the rating, saying the pitch encouraged competitive cricket despite the rapid result. The next Test, a day-night match at the Gabba, is set to begin Thursday, with curators aiming to maintain a balanced surface after past criticism of overly grassy wickets. The ICC’s positive assessment contrasts with the 2022–23 Gabba Test, which was rated 'below average' for excessive grass and uneven play.