The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced a significant step aimed at reducing match interruptions caused by bad light in Test cricket. During its recent board meeting in Ahmedabad, the governing body approved a trial that will allow the use of pink balls in Test matches when both participating teams agree beforehand.
Traditionally, red balls are used in Test cricket, but they often become difficult for players and officials to see when natural light begins to fade. While white balls offer better visibility, they are not considered durable enough for the longer format of the game. The pink ball, already used successfully in day night Test matches, is now being considered as a practical solution to help ensure more playing time during challenging light conditions.
The ICC stated that the trial is designed to maximize play and reduce the amount of cricket lost due to poor visibility. Alongside this initiative, the council has also approved further research into advanced lighting technology that could help match officials and venues manage poor light situations more effectively in the future.
ICC Chairman Jay Shah highlighted the organization’s commitment to improving the game through innovation, governance, and global development. He emphasized that these changes are part of ongoing efforts to enhance the overall cricket experience for players, officials, and fans.
In addition to the pink ball trial, the ICC has introduced several other playing condition updates. In One Day Internationals (ODIs), head coaches or designated team staff will now be allowed to enter the field during official drink breaks. Previously, only substitute players could carry messages onto the field.
The governing body has also shortened the innings break in T20 Internationals from 20 minutes to 15 minutes. Furthermore, on field umpires will now have access to HawkEye technology to help identify and assess bowlers with potentially illegal bowling actions during matches.
These changes reflect the ICC’s continued efforts to modernize cricket and improve the flow of the game across all formats.
