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The International Cricket Council (ICC) is likely to issue demerit points to the Newlands ground for the recent Test match between South Africa and India which concluded within five sessions, marking it as the shortest contest in Test cricket history.

Pitches can receive one of six ratings - very good, good, average, below average, poor, and unfit. Any rating falling into the last two categories could attract demerit points, ranging from one to five, with the potential for suspension.

Very good, good, and average ratings are not in question, while below average might be considered a softer sanction. A poor or unfit rating is anticipated in this case.

The sanctions on the pitch will depend on match referee Chris Broad’s rating.

The global governing body for cricket releases its decision after its operations team in Dubai evaluates the match referee's rating. However, a final decision is likely to be revealed on Monday, January 8.

The pitch for the first Test at Centurion, where the match ended within three days, was also under scrutiny.