The International Cricket Council (ICC) is introducing a trial in Test cricket that uses a pink ball to reduce time lost to bad light. Multiple reports say the trial is designed to address stoppages caused by declining visibility during day-night or low-light conditions, with the aim of keeping more play on the field. The trial is being implemented with an ICC-led approach that also includes work with the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) on ways to reduce lost play from poor light, including consideration of technology.
In addition to the pink-ball trial, one report notes that match officials receive access to Hawk-Eye data to help monitor suspect bowling actions, and that a trial related to leg-side wides is made permanent. Across sources, the common point is the ICC’s approval and rollout of the pink ball specifically for Tests affected by bad light, as part of efforts to improve continuity of matches. The trial details are presented as experimental, intended to evaluate whether the pink ball can limit stoppages and reduce their impact on match scheduling and play.
