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The iconic Dukes cricket ball has come under intense scrutiny during the ongoing England-India Test series. Players and pundits alike have voiced frustration over its inability to maintain hardness and assist bowlers across long spells, a hallmark of English conditions.
India’s Test captain Shubman Gill led the criticism after the Edgbaston Test, remarking that the ball had gone soft “far too quickly,” shifting the balance in favour of batters. His concerns were echoed by former England pacer Stuart Broad, who called the drop in quality “worrying” and urged for immediate corrective measures to protect the integrity of the contest.
Manufacturer Vows Thorough Investigation
In response to mounting criticism, Dilip Jajodia, owner of British Cricket Balls Ltd makers of the Dukes ball assured a comprehensive review. Speaking to BBC Sport, Jajodia said, “We will take it away, inspect and then start talking to the tanner, talking about all of the raw materials — everything. If changes are needed, we’ll make them.”
The investigation will examine every aspect of the ball’s production, from the leather and tanning process to other raw materials, to determine why it has fallen short of expectations.
Tradition vs. Change Debate Grows
Traditionally, the Dukes ball has been prized for its durability and ability to provide prolonged movement in seam-friendly conditions. However, in this series, that defining characteristic appears to be missing. Speculation has surfaced over whether this is a manufacturing lapse or an intentional shift to favour batting-friendly pitches.
A Series Balanced but a Debate Raging
Despite the ball controversy, all three Tests have produced results, leaving the series finely poised. As attention turns to the fourth Test, it remains to be seen whether any adjustments to the ball will be made. What’s clear, however, is that the Dukes ball — once a symbol of English cricketing tradition faces a critical test of its own.
