New Delhi: India head coach Gautam Gambhir has welcomed the International Cricket Council’s decision to allow the use of pink balls in regular Test matches affected by poor light, calling it a positive step that could help ensure results in crucial games.
The ICC recently approved a trial rule that will permit teams, by mutual agreement, to switch from a red ball to a pink ball during a day Test if bad light threatens to reduce playing time. Under the proposal, matches will begin with the traditional red ball, but if visibility deteriorates, floodlights can be used and a pink ball introduced to allow play to continue.
Expressing strong support for the move, Gambhir said the primary objective should be to maximise opportunities for a result rather than allowing weather conditions to significantly affect the outcome of a match.
The India coach highlighted the importance of the rule in the context of the World Test Championship, where every result can influence qualification standings. He pointed out that teams work for two years to earn a place in the final and losing valuable playing time because of bad light could have major consequences.
Gambhir also acknowledged that switching from a red ball to a pink ball during the same Test match may pose challenges for players. Differences in visibility, movement and playing conditions could require quick adjustments from both batters and bowlers.
However, he believes the benefits outweigh the difficulties, especially in high stakes matches where a result could determine progression to the World Test Championship final.
The rule is set to come into effect from October 1 and could have particular relevance in venues where daylight fades early. India is scheduled to host the Border-Gavaskar Trophy early next year, with Tests in Guwahati and Ranchi among venues where fading light can sometimes reduce playing hours.
According to Gambhir, the initiative represents a proactive approach by cricket’s governing body and could help preserve the competitive integrity of Test cricket by reducing the chances of weather denying teams a deserved result.
