Pink Ball Test Cricket — Day-Night Tests Explained
Day-night Test cricket uses a pink ball under floodlights to allow evening sessions. Learn how the pink ball behaves differently, why day-night Tests were introduced, and the famous twilight zone advantage.
Day-night Test cricket uses a pink ball and floodlights to allow the match to be played into the evening, making it more accessible for working fans who cannot attend daytime sessions. The first official day-night Test was played at Adelaide Oval between Australia and New Zealand in November 2015. Since then, most major cricket nations have played at least one day-night Test.
Why Pink?
The red ball used in traditional Tests is hard to see under artificial lighting, and the white ball used in limited-overs cricket loses its seam condition too quickly for a five-day Test. The pink ball retains its colour better under floodlights while maintaining seam and swing properties. However, the pink ball's lacquer wears at a different rate to the red ball, affecting how long conventional swing lasts.
The Twilight Zone
The most challenging period in a day-night Test is around 6–8pm local time — when natural light is fading and floodlights are not yet fully effective. In this window, the pink ball can be very difficult for batters to pick up, creating a significant advantage for bowlers. Teams who bat during this twilight zone are at a structural disadvantage, which shapes toss decisions.
Frequently asked questions
When did day-night Test cricket start?
The first officially sanctioned day-night Test was played at Adelaide Oval on 27 November 2015, between Australia and New Zealand. Australia won.
Why is the ball pink in day-night Tests?
The red ball is hard to see under artificial lights; the white ball wears too quickly for Test conditions. The pink ball is visible under floodlights and retains enough seam to support Test-style bowling.
Does the pink ball behave differently to the red ball?
Yes. The pink ball's lacquer wears at a different rate, meaning swing can last for different periods than with a red ball. It tends to lose its shine earlier and seam can become less pronounced, affecting when reverse swing develops.