Ball Change Drama at Lord’s Test

The second day of the third Test match between India and England at Lord’s was marked by a significant controversy over the condition of the cricket ball. Indian captain Shubman Gill requested a change of the second new ball after just 10.4 overs, expressing dissatisfaction with its condition. However, the replacement ball provided to the Indian team only added to their frustration, as it appeared to be in worse condition than the original.

Bumrah’s Insight on Ball Condition

Jasprit Bumrah, India’s leading fast bowler, shared his thoughts on the issue during a conversation with his wife and sports anchor Sanjana Ganesan on Sony Sports. Bumrah noted that the ball used in this series seemed different from those in previous series played in England. He attributed this change to the dry conditions and hot summer weather, which have affected the ball’s durability. Despite these challenges, Bumrah acknowledged that he had no control over these factors.

Replacement Ball Concerns

The dissatisfaction with the replacement ball was evident when Mohammed Siraj was caught on the stump mic questioning its age. This incident highlighted ongoing concerns about the quality of the Dukes ball being used in this series. Eventually, India received another replacement ball 48 deliveries later, but the issue persisted throughout the match.

Dukes Ball Manufacturer Responds

Dilip Jajodia, owner of Dukes balls, responded to the criticism by urging players to be patient and reasonable. He emphasized that his company is committed to addressing any issues with the ball, considering factors like weather conditions and modern gameplay demands. Jajodia assured that any faults would be reviewed and rectified if necessary.

Call for Understanding

Jajodia also pointed out that while players have every right to criticize the equipment, they should also recognize that manufacturers are actively working to meet their needs. He stressed that producing a cricket ball that satisfies all parties is challenging but remains a priority for his company.