Pakistan coach and captain suggest pink ball for winter Test matches
Mike Hesson and Babar Azam propose using pink balls to prevent play disruptions caused by bad light and rain.
Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson and captain Babar Azam have suggested using the pink ball in home day Test matches to address weather and light issues, according to the Times of India. The proposal follows the opening Test against Sri Lanka in Rawalpindi, which ended in a draw after nearly 141 overs were lost to rain and poor light.
The match faced repeated interruptions, with the fourth day being called off during the afternoon due to rain. Even before the rain, umpires suspended play because deteriorating light levels posed a potential injury risk to players using the red ball under lights.
Hesson stated that using the pink ball is something that needs to be discussed for future series. He noted that playing Test matches during this time of year remains a challenge across Pakistan and suggested the option allowed by the International Cricket Council (ICC) should be seriously considered.
Babar Azam noted that the short three-day gap between the two scheduled Tests would not allow sufficient time for preparation. He said that while the option is positive, players require more time to adjust to the different behaviour and conditions of the pink ball compared to the red ball.
