The ongoing Test series between England and India has caught attention, not just for the cricket, but because of the ball being used the Dukes ball. On Day 2 of the third Test at Lord’s, Indian captain Shubman Gill looked unhappy with the condition of the ball. The team had to change it twice in the morning session, which raised many questions about the ball’s quality.
The second new ball used in the match was changed after just 10 overs. Then, after 48 more balls, it had to be changed again. Not only Gill, but even the Indian bowlers showed frustration with the replacement balls. They said the ball went soft and out of shape too quickly, which made things difficult for the bowlers.
This isn’t the first time it has happened. In the second Test at Birmingham, players had also complained about the Dukes ball going soft early, asking for ball changes more than usual. Many former players and experts have also spoken up, saying the current Dukes balls are not what they used to be.
Why Is the Dukes Ball Under Fire?
The Dukes ball, made by British Cricket Balls Limited, has a long history dating back to 1760. It is used mostly in England, Ireland, and the West Indies. Known for its strong seam and hand-stitched quality, the Dukes ball usually helps bowlers with more swing and bounce. In fact, in the past, it stayed in good shape for up to 60-70 overs. But in this series, it’s wearing out much earlier.
This sudden drop in quality is a concern. Bowlers rely on the Dukes ball to maintain shape and swing for a long time. If it becomes soft or loses its seam early, it gives an unfair advantage to the batters.
Comparing the 3 Types of Balls Used in Test Cricket
Let’s look at the three balls used in Test matches Dukes, Kookaburra, and SG and how they are different:
1. Dukes Ball (Used in England, Ireland, West Indies)
- Made in: United Kingdom
- Seam: Six-row, hand-stitched
- Famous for: Holding shine and seam longer
- Benefits: Swings more, especially in English conditions
- Downside: Current version is going soft too soon
The Dukes ball has always been popular among swing bowlers. Its thick seam and strong stitching help the ball swing and stay firm for a long time. But in the current England-India series, the ball is not lasting as expected, which is causing frustration among players.
2. Kookaburra Ball (Used in Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, etc.)
- Made in Australia
- Seam: Six-row, machine-stitched
- Famous for: Balanced performance, batter-friendly
- Benefits: Good early swing with white ball
- Downside: Goes flat faster, spinners get less help
The Kookaburra ball is known for being machine-made, which makes its seam flatter. It doesn’t swing or spin as much as the Dukes ball. Batters prefer it more, as it becomes easier to hit after a few overs.
The Pink Kookaburra swings better than the white one, especially during twilight hours in day-night matches.
3. SG Ball (Used in India)
- Made in: India (Meerut)
- Seam: Six-row, hand-stitched
- Famous for: Wide seam, good for spin and reverse swing
- Benefits: Holds shape well, works well in dry Indian conditions
- Downside: Loses shine faster in dry air
The SG ball has been used in India since 1991. Its wider seam helps both fast bowlers and spinners. It supports reverse swing once the shine is gone, and spinners enjoy extra grip.
The White SG ball keeps shape well and gives bounce and spin. The Pink version is also strong and swings slightly more.
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