The exciting world of cricket is evolving with the introduction of day-night Test matches using a pink ball for the first time. This article delves into this recent development in the sport and explains the intricacies of day-night Tests played with a pink ball. The inaugural match took place on November 22, 2019, at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, where India faced Bangladesh. The pink ball was crafted by Meerut-based company Sanspareil Greenlands (SG).
Understanding the Day-Night Test
A day-night Test match implies either partial or full implementation of artificial stadium lighting or floodlights, allowing the game to continue into the night. The fundamental rationale behind this modification is to maximize match attendance. It accommodates cricket enthusiasts who typically only have the opportunity to watch matches after work.
The Pink Ball: An Innovation for Enhanced Visibility
Several colours were considered for the ball, including optic yellow and bright orange, due to their prominent visibility on grass. However, players reported that these colours tended to blend with brown patches on the pitch. Hence, pink emerged as the consensus choice. Unlike the traditional red ball used in regular Test cricket, which is grease-dipped, the pink ball receives a thorough coating of the colour. The pink ball’s advantage lies in its prolonged shine, ensuring enhanced visibility even under lights.
Manufacturing Process and Benefits
Pink balls resemble their red and white counterparts in terms of internal composition and manufacturing procedure. The differentiating factor lies in the dye colour and finishing process. Pink balls offer the benefit of slow deterioration compared to the white balls utilized in limited over matches, making them suitable for day-night Test matches.
Table: Day-Night Test Facts
| Trial | Approval by ICC | First International Match | Most successful team so far |
|---|---|---|---|
| England v Australia Women’s match, 2009 | 2012 | Australia Vs New Zealand, 2015 in Adelaide | Australia (Five Victories) |
Challenges and Concerns
Maintaining the pink ball’s colour slows its aging; it limits reverse swing capabilities and spin potential. It could potentially diminish the intrigue of a Test match. Moreover, the limited sun exposure during day-night Tests may prevent the pitch from breaking up swiftly, possibly leading to prolonged periods of unexciting play. Moreover, injecting entertainment into Test cricket by altering its essence might not be the best way forward.
Implications on Cricket
The additional lacquer coating helps the ball retain its colour throughout the match, but an orange hue may develop under floodlights. On the other hand, India has expressed reservations about participating in pink-ball Test matches in the past. Despite experimenting with the pink ball during a Duleep Trophy game in 2016, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had previously declined suggestions to organize more such games. The change came when Sourav Ganguly, as the BCCI President, approved the first pink-ball Test at Eden Gardens.
