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Cricket enthusiasts are aware that the red ball used in Test matches plays a crucial role in shaping the game. While most casual fans recognize the importance of pace, spin, and batting technique, the type of ball used in a match can heavily influence the swing, bounce, and durability of play. Three red balls are predominant in international cricket: Dukes, SG, and Kookaburra.
The Duke's ball, primarily used in England and the West Indies, is famous for its pronounced seam, consistent swing, and hand-stitched durability. Meanwhile, the SG ball, made in India, is slightly softer but maintains its shape well in subcontinental conditions. Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand use the Kookaburra ball, which flattens faster and is machine-stitched, which favors batting-friendly conditions.
During the 2025 England vs India Test series, the Dukes ball, which is generally reliable, has been subjected to heavy criticism from both sides. Concerns about its quality, durability, and performance have been raised by top cricketers, making the humble cricket ball one of the most talked-about topics of the series.
What is the problem with the Dukes Ball this time?
Unlike previous series, where the Dukes ball lasted a solid 70–80 overs with swing and shape intact, this year’s version is losing its shine, lacquer, and shape far too early—sometimes within just 10–15 overs. Multiple ball changes in a single innings have led to breaks in rhythm and strategic disruption for bowlers. The frustration of players from both India and England has been expressed.
Rishabh Pant referred to the ball as 'irritating' and stated that it was affecting the natural flow of the match.
Stuart Broad tweeted that the ball “should last 80 overs. Not 10.”
During his spells at Lord's, Jofra Archer displayed a noticeable annoyance with the ball's condition.
Ben Stokes questioned the quality control and even suggested that the umpire ball gauges may be defective.
In a high-stakes Test series where every over matters, the inconsistency of the ball has made it difficult for bowlers to settle into a rhythm, and for batters to trust bounce and swing.
Frequent Ball Changes Causing Frustration
Shubman Gill's fight with the umpires over a ball change was one of the highlights of the Lord's Test, which ultimately resulted in a five-run penalty for him. The issue wasn’t just the change itself, but how often it was happening. Historically, only when the ball was clearly out of shape did ball changes occur. In this series, they have become a common interruption that disrupts momentum and frustrates players and fans alike.
What makes the Dukes Ball unique – and why it's failing
- There are a few key traits that make the Duke's ball famous.
- The seam that is hand-stitched aids bowlers in achieving natural movement.
- The leather is durable and has high-quality lacquer that maintains its shine.
- Maintaining a consistent swing across conditions.
But according to experts and players, this year’s batch seems faulty. Former spinner Murali Kartik mentioned that earlier Dukes balls would stay firm for 60–70 overs, but now they’re softening after just 25–30. Others have said the seam isn’t as pronounced, which affects swing and grip.
- The defense of manufacturers involves weather, bats, and expectations
- In response to the criticism, Dilip Jajodia, the owner of Dukes, offered some explanations:
- Modern bats are more powerful, which causes the ball to wear out faster.
- Hot weather conditions in England this summer could be softening the leather more quickly.
- Aggressive batting and higher scoring rates are naturally going to affect ball condition.
He defended the decision to keep the ball slightly softer, stating that a harder ball could result in more broken bats. However, there are those who believe that the problem is not limited to weather or usage patterns, but could also be caused by modifications in manufacturing or quality control.
Should the Saliva Ban Be Lifted?
Another angle being discussed is the continued ban on saliva used to shine balls, which was introduced during COVID-19. It has been suggested by Anil Kumble and other former players that bowlers cannot naturally maintain the shine of the ball without saliva. Sweating is permitted, but it does not provide the same level of control over swing. With the ball losing shine so fast, reverse swing becomes nearly impossible. Should cricket's governing bodies reconsider reintroducing traditional ball-maintenance methods if the equipment isn't holding up?
Impact on Game Balance
An imbalance between the bat and the ball is being caused by the early deterioration of the Duke's ball. Once the seam is gone and the ball softens, bowlers struggle to get any movement in the air or off the pitch. The game becomes more batter-friendly in conditions that are supposed to support bowlers, making spinners and part-timers more pressured. This also affects match timings and strategies. Bowlers are expending more energy for a lower return, prompting captains to reshuffle field placements and bowling rotations more often.
Long-Term Implications
The Dukes ball's reputation could be in jeopardy if this trend persists. Several cricket boards may demand better quality control or even switch to alternate suppliers. The unique charm of Test cricket in England could be lost if the ball no longer supports swing and seam bowling, which is already under pressure in the format.
Moreover, the frequency of ball changes may push the ICC to introduce tighter regulations on when and how balls can be replaced. Umpires are required to change the ball if it fails the ring gauge test, regardless of the players' disagreement.
Conclusion: Time for Dukes to Step Up
Although Dukes has a long-standing reputation for crafting one of the finest red balls in cricket, the 2025 England vs India series has exposed some serious flaws. Whether it’s a manufacturing issue, climate change impact, or changes in playing style and it’s clear that something needs to be addressed.
For the sake of the bowlers, the captains trying to manage strategies, and fans who love a fair contest between bat and ball, Dukes must investigate, acknowledge, and fix these issues before their credibility wears out like their ball’s lacquer.
Cricket deserves better — and so do the players.
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