India, Nov. 27 -- The ICC has handed the Perth Stadium surface used for the whirlwind Ashes Test its highest rating of "very good," even though the match wrapped up in less than two days - making it the shortest Ashes Test since 1888 and one of the briefest Tests ever played on Australian soil.

Match referee Ranjan Madugalle praised the pitch for offering strong carry, reliable bounce and minimal early seam movement, noting in his report that it met the criteria for a balanced contest under the ICC's four-tier grading system. The lively surface produced 19 wickets on the opening day, setting the tone for a furious contest dominated by fast bowling.

The Test lasted just 847 deliveries, with both attacks slicing through batting line-ups b...