Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has criticised what he described as “staggering double standards” in the way Test pitches are assessed, following Australia’s two-day victory over Bangladesh in Mackay.

Australia defeated Bangladesh by an innings and 51 runs to level the two-Test series 1-1. The match ended inside two days, with neither side managing to score 100 runs in an innings.

Writing in his Sportstar column, Gavaskar pointed out that four Tests in Australia have finished within two days in recent years, including two Ashes matches last year in Perth and Melbourne. He questioned why such pitches do not attract the same level of criticism often directed at Indian surfaces.

Gavaskar also rejected the argument that poor batting alone was responsible for the low scores. He noted that when the home team’s batters also struggle to build partnerships, the pitch must come under scrutiny.

The former opener suggested Australia’s fast and bouncy Mackay surface was prepared after Bangladesh won the opening Test. He argued that teams in SENA countries also prepare conditions that suit their strengths, although such practices are discussed differently compared with India.

Gavaskar further defended the challenge of playing quality spin, saying it requires excellent footwork, balance and soft hands. He questioned why fast bowlers are rarely judged for poor performances on slow subcontinental pitches.

He concluded by calling for consistency in pitch ratings and said the Mackay surface would be closely watched when the match referee’s report is released.