Curators have been under the spotlight throughout the summer after two-day Tests in Perth and Melbourne, the latter pitch later labelled “unsatisfactory” by the International Cricket Council.
Lewis said he rang Page after the Melbourne curator fronted the media alongside MCC chief executive Stuart Fox on the now non-existent third day of the Test, with the press conference broadcast live on some television networks.
The centre wicket at the SCG on Friday morning, two days out from the start of the fifth Test,Credit: Getty Images
“We’re gutted for Matty and his whole team,” Lewis said. “It’s something we don’t plan for it. We’re trying to prepare a surface that’s great for everyone. We want the players to control the game.
“Mate, I feel for him. 21 minutes in front of you guys, it’s pretty daunting. I’m hoping we can finish up early today.”
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While there have been no directives from Cricket Australia about what type of pitch to prepare, Lewis is well aware of the appetite for the match to stretch into day five.
Even Prime Minister Anthony Albanese referenced the need for the Test to last at least three days at a function with the teams at Kirribilli House on Thursday evening.
“To be totally honest with you, I don’t listen to media,” Lewis said. “I haven’t read the papers. I try and steer clear of all that.
“I’m a real positive person. I’ve got to keep my team positive. I’m just trying to make it as enjoyable for the guys as possible. We want it to be a five-day Test.
“One of my most memorable [matches] was the last Ashes [at the SCG]. I was sitting on day five watching Steve Smith bowling that last over. Now we didn’t get a result that year, but that was one of the best Test matches that I’ve seen. I’ll never forget it.”