ICC approves pink ball trial for day Tests in bad light

In a significant move aimed at reducing lost playing time, the International Cricket Council has approved a trial to use a pink ball in day Test matches when bad light threatens to disrupt play. The decision was made during the ICC Board’s annual meeting in Ahmedabad.

The trial is designed to maximize match time by allowing play to continue under floodlights using the pink ball, which offers better visibility in low light, if both competing teams agree to the change before a match or series. Currently, pink balls are used exclusively in day-night Tests. The ICC stated the measure is intended for situations where poor light is anticipated, allowing officials to switch from the traditional red ball to preserve overs that might otherwise be lost.

Alongside this trial, the ICC Board approved a joint research initiative with the Marylebone Cricket Club to develop advanced lighting technology for venues and match officials, co-funding projects to further address interruptions caused by fading light.

In another notable change, head coaches or their designated staff will now be permitted to enter the field of play during scheduled drinks intervals in One-Day Internationals and T20...