Dukes Ball Quality Under Scrutiny

The quality of the Dukes ball has once again become a focal point during the third Test between India and England at Lord’s. On the second day of the match, Indian captain Shubman Gill and bowler Mohammed Siraj expressed their dissatisfaction with the condition of the ball, which had been replaced just 10 overs prior. The umpires had initially changed the ball after it failed to pass the hoop test, a standard procedure to ensure the ball’s shape is suitable for play.

Gill’s Frustration with Replacement Ball

Shubman Gill’s frustration was evident as he engaged in a heated discussion with the umpire over the shape of the replacement ball. His dissatisfaction was so intense that he even snatched the ball from the umpire’s hands, although his arguments were ultimately dismissed. Siraj, caught on the stump mic, questioned the age of the ball, suggesting it appeared much older than its actual use.

Support from Commentary Box

From the commentary box, former cricketer Sunil Gavaskar supported India’s claims, noting that the ball did not resemble one that had been used for only 10 overs. This incident highlights ongoing concerns about the consistency and reliability of the Dukes ball used in this series.

Rishabh Pant Criticizes Ball Quality

Prior to this match, India’s vice-captain Rishabh Pant had already criticized the quality of the Dukes ball. He pointed out that balls frequently lose their shape, affecting gameplay significantly. Pant emphasized that this issue disrupts the balance between bat and ball, as bowlers struggle to extract any assistance once the ball softens.

Impact on Gameplay and Player Adjustments

The recurring need to replace balls has become a regular feature in this series, with players having to constantly adjust their strategies. Pant expressed that such inconsistencies are not beneficial for cricket, as they require batsmen to adapt to varying conditions frequently. This ongoing issue raises questions about whether improvements in ball manufacturing standards are necessary to maintain fair play.