Pakistan v England: Rawalpindi ground for first Test rated 'below average'

The fields of each international match are noted, with negative grades resulting in demerit points, the accumulation of which could lead to suspension of staging rights.

The below average rating gave Rawalpindi a demerit point.

This is the second time this year that the land has received a demerit point.

The ground for the first Test draw between Pakistan and Australia in March was also rated below average.

If a site receives five demerit points in a five-year period, it will be suspended from hosting international cricket for 12 month.

The six ratings a pitch or outfield can receive are very good, good, average , below average, mediocre and unfit.

The flat terrain in Rawalpindi allowed for score 1,768 points, the most in history for a Test contested over a maximum of five days.

Despite the lack of encouragement from the bowlers, England managed to force a famous win in the dying moments of the final day.

Referee of the match Andy Pycroft said: "It was a very flat pitch which gave almost no assistance to any type of bowler. This is the main reason the batters scored so quickly and both teams posted huge totals. The ground did not deteriorate much during the match.

"As there was very little for bowlers, I found the field to be " below average" as per ICC guidelines."

England followed their victory in Rawalpindi with success in the second Test in Multan to take an unassailable 2-0 series lead. They will look for a clean sweep in the final test in Karachi, which begins on Saturday.