The second Test between Australia and India is currently underway at the Adelaide Oval, marking another thrilling chapter in the five-match series. This match is a day/night fixture, with the teams playing under lights using the pink ball, a significant departure from the traditional red ball.
Here’s what makes the pink ball different from the red one and how it impacts the game.
The Role of the Pink Ball in Day/Night Tests
Day/night Test matches, like the one being played in Adelaide, use the pink ball, designed specifically for better visibility under artificial lights. The shift from the red ball to the pink ball introduces a number of challenges and advantages for players, particularly bowlers and batters.
The pink ball is known to behave differently, especially during the night session. As former Australian fast bowler Brett Lee aptly described it, the pink ball is “not quite red, not quite white, right in the middle—rose.” He explained that the ball swings more during the twilight hours when conditions are cooler and more humid. The increased movement under lights makes it difficult for batters to stay at the crease, adding to the excitement of the match. Lee, who enjoyed bowling with the white ball under lights, believes the pink ball provides even more advantages to fast bowlers.
Differences Between Pink and Red Balls
The introduction of the pink ball has sparked debates regarding its impact on the game, particularly when compared to the traditional red ball. Here’s a breakdown of their key differences:
- Design and Construction:
- The red ball is dyed and coated with wax, which wears off quickly and affects its visibility as it ages.
- The pink ball, on the other hand, is coated with polyurethane and an additional lacquer layer, helping it maintain its color and visibility for a longer time, especially under artificial lighting.
- Seam Color:
- The red ball has a white seam, while the pink ball features a black seam. This change makes the pink ball easier to spot against the pink surface during evening matches.
- Weight:
- Both balls weigh between 156 and 162 grams, adhering to international cricket standards, so there is no significant weight difference between the two.
- Visibility:
- The pink ball is specifically designed for day/night Test matches, ensuring better visibility under floodlights. The red ball can become difficult to see as it ages and loses its shine, turning brown with wear.
- Behavior During Play:
- The pink ball is known for its increased swing, especially in the early overs, thanks to its lacquered surface. This can give bowlers a significant advantage, particularly under lights, while batters often struggle with its unpredictable movement and tendency to skid off the pitch.
- Spinners, however, may find it harder to grip the pink ball compared to the red one, which offers more friction for turning deliveries.
Historical Context:
The first-ever day/night Test match was played in 2015 between Australia and New Zealand at Adelaide Oval, using the pink ball. Since then, while the pink ball has gained popularity in some circles, day/night Tests remain less common than traditional red ball Tests.
The introduction of the pink ball has brought a new dynamic to Test cricket, enhancing visibility and offering different challenges for players. While both the pink and red balls serve the same fundamental purpose in the game, their design, behavior, and impact on gameplay make them distinct from one another. As Test cricket continues to evolve, understanding these differences will be key to adapting to the unique conditions presented by day/night matches. With Australia and India facing off in a highly anticipated pink ball Test, cricket fans are in for an exciting spectacle.
