The primary reason white balls are used in limited-overs cricket is to improve visibility, especially under floodlights.
Understanding the Shift to White Balls
Traditional red cricket balls, while suitable for daytime play, become difficult to see under artificial lighting. This poses a significant challenge, particularly for the team batting second in limited-overs matches, as a portion of their innings is often played at night.
Why White Balls Are Better Under Lights
- Enhanced Visibility: White cricket balls provide greater contrast against the dark background of the night sky, and any shadows that the lights cast on the pitch. This makes it easier for batsmen, fielders, and even spectators to track the ball's movement.
- Fairness: Using white balls ensures a level playing field for both teams, as the team batting second will play under lighting for part of their innings. Without the change, the disadvantage of playing at night would have been intensified.
- Modern Cricket Needs: As the popularity of limited-overs matches grew, especially day/night games, the need for better visibility became more essential. The switch to white balls accommodated these changes.
Evolution of Cricket Balls
While the red ball remains the standard for Test cricket and first-class matches, the introduction of the white ball has been a significant adaptation in the world of cricket.
| Ball Color | Cricket Format | Visibility Under Lights | Primary Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Red | Test and First-Class Cricket | Poor | Matches played primarily during daylight hours |
| White | Limited Overs Cricket (ODI, T20) | Excellent | Matches often played under floodlights; improved visibility |
Summary
The use of the white ball in limited-overs cricket is a practical solution to address visibility issues faced during matches played under floodlights. This ensures fairness and enhances the viewing experience for everyone involved.
