All you need to know about the pink cherry
On the verge of the second Test between the sides, here is a look at how the pink ball differs from the red and how it might affect the game.
Bangladesh and India are set to play in their first-ever day-night Test match, where the pink ball will be used. Even though 10 teams have already played with the pink ball, this Test will be a first because in this Test an SG ball will be used instead of a Kookaburra or Dukes.
On the verge of the second Test between the sides, here is a look at how the pink ball differs from the red and how it might affect the game.
The ball itself
The pink ball has a black seam, instead of the white seam that the red one has. Also, the pink ball's leather is processed differently than the red one. The red ball has dyed leather, whereas the pink ball has leather which is coated with colour. Simply put, the red colour is absorbed by the leather but the pink ball has paint on it.
Its effect on the game
The pink ball initially swings more because of the extra coat of pigment and lacquer but lacks in time of reverse.
The red ball can be prepared for reverse swing over time but in the case of the pink ball, the amount of reverse swing depends more on the roughness of the ground rather than the shine of the ball.
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The lasting of the shine
The shine did not last long a couple of years earlier, but now it should last about 80 overs.
The bounce
The SG ball being used in the Test has a pronounced bounce and should help the seamers with extra bounce.
The hardness of the ball
The ball which is supposed to be used in the Kolkata Test is the latest version and it should last for about 80 overs.
The help available for the bowlers
The pink ball helps the seamers at the twilight period as that timespan is similar to overcast conditions. The ball swings a tad more than usual in this period.
The dew factor
According to ball providers SG, the seam is made of Linen which absorbs dew and thus will be easier for the spinners to grip the ball.
The extra challenge for first-time users
It will be challenging for the teams, but they have had practice with the pink ball under lights during the training sessions.
