2 hrs ago
ICC Opens Door to Pink-Ball Daytime Tests
The ICC is testing pink cricket balls in daytime Test matches.
Pink balls are easier to see when the evening light becomes weak.
This could help teams lose fewer overs because of bad light.
Both teams must agree to use the pink ball before the match starts.
Once they agree, they must use it for the entire Test.
The upcoming India-Australia match in Guwahati could use a pink ball.
The ICC also changed some rules about the final over and time-wasting.
Batters who waste time repeatedly could give the other team five runs.
The International Cricket Council approved trial use of pink balls in daytime Tests from October 1.
Teams must mutually agree before the match, and cannot switch balls after play begins.
The rule could allow the India-Australia Test in Guwahati to use a pink ball because of early sunset.
Play will no longer automatically stop at a wicket in the final over if conditions remain suitable.
Time-wasting batters may receive warnings and a five-run penalty for a third offence.
- Who
- The International Cricket Council, with changes overseen by its Men's Cricket Committee chaired by Sourav Ganguly, approved the trial.
- What
- Pink balls may be used in daytime Test matches by mutual agreement, alongside other playing-condition changes.
- Where
- The rule could affect the India-Australia Test in Guwahati, where early sunset may reduce playing time.
- When
- The new playing conditions apply to international series beginning on October 1 or later.
- Why
- The trial aims to reduce overs lost because of fading light and modernise Test cricket.
Key facts
- Effective date
- International series starting October 1 or later
- Ball decision
- Both teams must agree before the Test begins
- Match duration
- The pink ball must be used for the entire Test once selected
- Switching rule
- Teams cannot switch from a red ball to a pink ball after play starts
- Time-wasting penalty
- A third repeated offence by a batter can result in five runs for the fielding side
- Final-over change
- Play will not automatically end at a wicket in the last over if conditions permit
- Ball specifications
- A new ball must weigh 5 to 5.25 ounces and measure 8.46 to 8.66 inches in circumference
Quotes
International Cricket Council
The international cricket governing body
“As a trial, pink balls may be used in daytime Tests by mutual agreement to reduce loss of play due to bad light. The use of a pink ball must be agreed before the start of the Test and once agreed, must apply for the duration of the match.”
rediff.com
“There are some important changes to the Playing Conditions, including provisions relating to cricket balls, greater clarity around certain aspects of fielding and measures aimed at improving the pace of the game.”
rediff.com
Sources
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