Pink Ball Cricket: Day-Night Tests Explained
A complete guide to pink ball cricket and day-night Test matches — why the pink ball was introduced, how it behaves differently from the red ball, and the most famous day-night Tests played so far.
Day-night Test cricket — played under floodlights with a pink ball — is the most significant structural change to Test cricket in the modern era. Introduced to increase crowds and television audiences for the traditional format, it allows matches to be played from mid-afternoon into the evening, making Test cricket accessible to working fans and prime-time broadcasters for the first time.
Why a Pink Ball?
The traditional red ball is very difficult to see under floodlights and at dusk — the 'twilight period' when the ball is hardest to see and batting conditions are most treacherous. The white ball used in limited-overs cricket stands out well under lights but deteriorates too quickly for a five-day match. A pink ball was developed — visible under floodlights and durable enough for extended play — as the compromise solution for day-night Tests.
First Day-Night Test — Australia vs New Zealand, 2015
The first men's day-night Test was played at Adelaide Oval between Australia and New Zealand in November 2015. Australia won convincingly and the match attracted large crowds and strong television ratings, validating the concept. The Adelaide Oval — with its distinctive floodlights and enclosed atmosphere — became the natural home of day-night Test cricket.
How the Pink Ball Behaves
The pink ball swings more than the red ball, particularly when new, making conditions under the lights exceptionally difficult for batsmen. The lacquer used to give the pink ball its colour wears off differently from red ball preparation, and the ball can seam unpredictably in the twilight session. Bowlers — particularly left-arm pace bowlers who angle into right-handers — have tended to dominate day-night Tests.
Notable Day-Night Tests
India played their first day-night Test at home in Kolkata against Bangladesh in 2019 — a hugely anticipated occasion at Eden Gardens with over 50,000 fans attending. Pakistan's day-night Tests in UAE before their home return were also landmark occasions. Australia have been the strongest exponents of the format, using the seam and swing conditions under lights to devastating effect against most touring sides.
Frequently asked questions
Why do they use a pink ball in day-night Tests?
The pink ball is used because the traditional red ball is very hard to see under floodlights, especially at dusk. The pink ball is visible under artificial light and durable enough for five days of Test cricket.
When was the first day-night Test played?
The first men's day-night Test was played at Adelaide Oval in November 2015, between Australia and New Zealand. Australia won the match.
Is the pink ball harder to bat against?
Yes, particularly in the twilight session when the transition between natural and artificial light makes it very difficult to see the ball. The pink ball also swings more than the red ball when new.