The pink ball used in day-night Test matches is not dipped in grease, like the red cherry, for visibility issues. It is lighter than red and offers more movement. Now that India is set to appear in whites under lights against Bangladesh in Kolkata, pink is the new obsession.
India international Jaydev Unadkat, who has bowled with the pink ball in Duleep Trophy, throws light on the challenges ahead.
“It will be challenging as the dimensions will change. The reverse swing might not come into action as soon as it does with the red SG ball but I am sure they will look into the quality of the ball before the Test match. The pitch is also likely to be better as it is an international match and not a domestic game. It will be a good contest,” the left-arm pacer told Sportstar on Wednesday.
READ: Curators talk grass, pitch for pink-ball Test
Facing the new ball still remains a daunting task for batsmen. “The new pink ball swings much more than the red ball. It will be challenging for the batsmen to play the new ball,” he said.
The Cricket Association of Bengal is awaiting BCCI clearance for a 1.30 pm start; stumps by 8.30 pm can lessen the dew threat to an extent.
The body clock of the cricketers is also a talking point in this regard. On a usual Test match day, they are used to early mornings. “Personally, I think the timings suit my body clock, but it can be different for others. You don’t have to get up early and have your body ready right in time for the game. I think 12-12:30 is an ideal time.
ALSO READ: 'Decision to host day-night Test based on common sense'
“During a Duleep Trophy game, it took one or two days to get used to it but it was much more easier to play in that timing. The last session gets cooler in most parts of India after 6 pm. It is a different ball-game altogether. Personally, I feel it is a much better time zone,” Unadkat said.
The pink-ball Test being a part of the World Test Championship makes it even more grand. The action starts at the Eden Gardens from November 22.
Comments
SHARE