Controversy After Edgbaston Test: Time To Change Ball Replacement Rule?

Dukes, the manufacturer of the red ball currently used in the England-India Test series, has called for a change in the current rule.

This suggestion comes in the wake of back-to-back high-scoring matches, where bowlers have struggled to extract movement or bounce.

Source : @sachin_rt / X

The second Test match of the ongoing series between India and England at Edgbaston, Birmingham ended in a historic win for Team India—their first-ever victory at this venue in Test cricket.

With this emphatic result, India leveled the series 1-1. While the match saw high-scoring innings, especially from skipper Shubman Gill, who amassed over 400 runs, it also sparked debate around the condition and effectiveness of the ball used during the game.

Dukes Pushes for Change in Ball Rule

Dukes, the manufacturer of the red ball currently used in the England-India Test series, has called for a change in the current rule that allows a new ball only after 80 overs in Test matches.

The company is proposing that the new ball should be made available after 60 overs, citing frequent complaints about the ball losing shape and softness too early in the innings.

This suggestion comes in the wake of back-to-back high-scoring matches, where bowlers have struggled to extract movement or bounce. Indian captain Shubman Gill had earlier voiced concern about the ball, stating that it was deteriorating too quickly and becoming difficult to bowl with.

Spoke to the man behind Dukes ball to listen to what he thinks maybe the reason of the ball going soft, as indian captain Gill wondered after second Test. Jajodia wants new balls taken between 60 and 70 overs. Puts part of blame on more sixes and powerful bats pic.twitter.com/Ndy83XXvpJ

— Amit (@nottheamit) July 8, 2025

Dukes Owner Responds to Criticism

Dilip Jajodia, owner of the Dukes ball factory, addressed the growing criticism, saying,

“Blaming the ball has become a trend. When bowlers don’t get wickets, they often turn to the umpires and question the ball.”

During the Edgbaston Test, Indian players—including Rishabh Pant—were seen repeatedly appealing to the umpire for a ball change, but most of those requests were denied. The frustration was visible, further intensifying the conversation around the ball’s durability.

Global Discontent Over the Ball

Interestingly, this issue isn’t limited to the England series. The same Dukes ball is being used in ongoing Test series in the West Indies and Australia, where players have echoed similar concerns. Notably, Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood was seen complaining about the ball’s poor behavior during their series.

Given the recurring feedback from multiple series, Dukes is now considering proposing an official change to the 80-over rule, which has long been a staple of Test cricket.