Why the Pink Cricket Ball Is Used in Ashes Day-Night Tests
Explore why the Ashes use a pink ball in day-night Tests, how floodlights affect visibility for players and fans, and where this ball has been trialed in international cricket.
The pink ball helps visibility in day-night Tests for players and spectators.
Cricket matches in this format move from bright daylight to floodlights, so a ball that stands out under lights is essential for tracking its path and bounce.
Why is a pink ball used in day-night Tests?
In 2015, the sport's governing body approved day-night Tests to boost audience interest. The pink ball was developed specifically for this format because a traditional red ball becomes harder to see after sunset when floods are on.
Historically, the red ball has been used in all daytime Tests since the Ashes began in 1882. The pink ball was introduced for international play in the 2017-18 season as a visibility solution under lights.
In the 2025-26 season, the pink ball is scheduled for use in the second Test in Brisbane, from December 4 to 8. It is designed to maintain visibility as conditions change from day to night.
Pink balls have been designed to balance visibility across daylight and floodlit conditions and have gradually become common in international cricket since late 2000s.
Where has the pink ball been used?
In the Ashes, the pink ball has appeared in three Tests held in Australia: one during 2017-18 and two during 2021-22, with Australia winning all three matches.
There has never been a pink-ball Ashes Test in England. The sole day-night Test hosted by England was against the West Indies in 2017, which England won by an innings and 209 runs.
Across all day-night Tests to date, 24 matches have been played, with 13 staged in Australia. Australia has won 12 of those 13 games.
Expert comment
Expert opinion: A cricket analyst says visibility under lights is crucial, and the pink ball helps with that. They note that players and fans must still adjust to the ball’s unique feel and seam behavior in different conditions.
Summary
The pink ball was created to improve visibility in day-night cricket, a format designed to attract larger audiences. While it has proven effective in Australian conditions, it has not yet become a standard in England's Ashes tests. Ongoing trials and future seasons will show whether the pink ball becomes a global norm, or remains a regional adaptation for televised cricket.
Key insight: The pink ball enhances visibility in day-night Tests, supporting more consistent play and audience engagement. Source: BBC Sport