Pink Ball Test: What you need to know

The pink ball Test is the day‑night version of Test cricket. It keeps the same five‑day structure but moves play into the evening so fans can watch after work. Organisers use a pink ball so players and TV cameras can see the ball clearly under floodlights while keeping the traditional white clothing.

Why pink? Red balls disappear a bit under lights and white balls clash with whites. The pink ball gives good contrast on TV and at the ground. The first high‑profile day‑night Test was staged in Adelaide in 2015 and the idea has spread since then. Boards now schedule pink ball Tests to attract bigger crowds and better broadcast slots.

How the pink ball plays

Pink balls get an extra lacquer layer and a slightly different finish. That changes the way they swing, seam and wear. Early on the lacquer helps the ball swing a lot under lights. It also stays hard longer, so fast bowlers can get pace late into sessions. As the ball ages it may show a different roughing pattern than a red ball, which changes spin and reverse‑swing behaviour.

Lighting, dew and ground conditions matter more in day‑night Tests. Floodlights can make the ball look brighter or create glare, so visibility depends on stadium lighting quality. Dew late in the evening can make the ball slippery and slow spin, and it can help seam movement if the surface stays moist. Captains plan bowlers and fielders around these shifts.

Practical tips for players and fans

Players should train with the pink ball before a match. Bowlers practice seam position and different release points for swing under lights. Spinners check grip and how the lacquer affects turn. Fielders and keepers do catching drills under stadium lights to judge flight and late movement.

If you’re going to a pink ball Test, aim for seats that give you a side or elevated view so you can follow the ball against the sky and lights. Bring layers — evenings can get cold. On TV, increase screen brightness a notch if the ball looks dull. Broadcasters often tweak camera settings; streaming on a larger screen helps follow subtle movement.

Organisers may change start times, extend evening sessions, and prepare pitches to offer a fair contest across day and night. The switch to pink ball Tests has brought new tactics and fresh crowds. If you like close, tactical battles and late‑night drama, a pink ball Test offers both.