New Ball Rules in Cricket — When Teams Can Take the New Ball
When can a fielding team take the new ball in cricket? Learn the new ball rules in Test, ODI, and T20 cricket — why it matters, what advantages a new ball brings, and how teams decide when to take it.
In cricket, the BALL changes character dramatically as it ages. A new ball swings and seams; an old ball reverse swings or plays into the hands of spinners. Knowing when teams can take a new ball — and when it's strategically wise to do so — is one of cricket's most nuanced captaincy decisions.
New Ball Rules in Test Cricket
In Test cricket, the fielding team can take the NEW BALL after 80 overs have been bowled in the current innings. This is an option, not a requirement — the fielding captain decides whether to take it. If the batting team is in trouble with the old ball, a captain might delay taking the new ball to avoid giving batters a 'fresh start'. If the old ball is doing nothing, the new ball is almost always taken immediately at 80 overs.
New Ball Rules in ODI Cricket
In ODI cricket (50 overs per side), TWO new balls are used — one from each end — from the very start of the innings. Both balls are effectively new for the entire innings, though they deteriorate at different rates. The dual-ball system was introduced partly to maintain consistent reverse swing availability and to keep the white ball visible on TV broadcasts for longer.
New Ball in T20 Cricket
T20 cricket uses a single new ball (or two new balls from each end, depending on the competition rules) for the entire 20-over innings. Since innings are so short, the ball never ages enough to reverse swing meaningfully — T20 bowling relies on the relatively new ball's ability to move through the air and off the pitch rather than old-ball reverse swing.
Why the New Ball Matters
A new cricket ball has several advantages over an old one. It is HARDER — making it harder on the bat and giving bowlers more bounce. It is SHINIER — both sides are shiny on a brand new ball, making traditional swing bowling easier. It is HEAVIER — slightly more difficult for batters to hit over the field. Against quality fast bowlers, a new ball in the first 10–15 overs is the most dangerous phase of any Test innings.
When Teams DELAY Taking the New Ball
Occasionally, a captain will delay taking the new ball at 80 overs — particularly if they have a threatening spinner operating and the ball is turning sharply. A worn ball that offers grip to spinners can be more dangerous on a turning pitch than a new ball that reduces spin. Old ball also reverses — fast bowlers who can reverse swing a worn ball may prefer to keep it rather than take a shiny new one that swings conventionally.
Frequently asked questions
When can a team take the new ball in Test cricket?
In Test cricket, the fielding team can request the new ball after 80 overs have been bowled in the current innings. It's an option — the captain can delay taking it if the old ball is offering more (e.g., reverse swing or spin grip). A new ball is also available after 160 overs if the same innings continues.
Why do teams use two balls in ODI cricket?
ODI cricket uses two new balls — one from each end of the pitch — for the entire 50-over innings. The dual-ball system ensures the balls wear evenly, keeps the white ball visible for TV broadcasts longer, and provides consistent conditions across all 50 overs. The first 10 overs see both balls in pristine condition simultaneously.