In cricket, a white is used in ODIs and T20 matches. The red ball is played during test matches, however, if it is a day and night match then the red ball is not clearly visible. During night matches, the floodlight makes the red ball appear brownish and blends in with the pitch. This has led to the introduction of the pink ball. This colour stands out in the floodlight and does not blend with the pitch.
The pink ball will feature in the second Test match between India and Bangladesh that is scheduled to start on 22nd November and culminates on 26th November. We have Sourav Ganguly to thank for it. He introduced the pink ball as the Chairman of the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) for the regional games. He brought this same vigour to Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) as the President.
He wants to revive the enthusiasm for Test cricket. The sale of tickets for the test matches during the South Africa Tour of India was low. Ganguly wants to revitalise the response to it, he told Times of India, “That’s the way forward. Test cricket needed a rejuvenation”.
He adds, “It happens all around the world. Somewhere it had to start. India is the biggest country in terms of cricket. I think that rejuvenation was important”.
CAB Secretary, Avishek Dalmiya also confirms the news. The Test match at Eden Gardens will feature two pink balls, he said, “The paratroopers will fly into the wicket with two pink balls. We have discussed the plans with the Army (Eastern Command),” as quoted in India Today.
There is a lot of high hopes for the next Test match. Ganguly said, “He (Kohli) is a great player and he should be playing in front of the packed house. He will be happy to see it full house when he walks out to bat on day one. You will love the atmosphere at the Eden so come and watch”.
Ganguly also said, “You can’t have greats of the Indian cricket play in front of empty stands. And here you will have a full house for the first three days”.
