ENG vs IND: Manufacturer to review Dukes ball after rising quality concerns-OxBig News Network

The manufacturer of the Duke’s ball has confirmed that they will be conducting a thorough review of the match balls used during the first three Tests between England and India. The announcement follows widespread criticism over the ball’s quality, with concerns raised about its inability to retain hardness and aid the bowlers across long spells.

India’s Test captain, Shubman Gill, voiced his frustration after the Edgbaston Test, suggesting that the Dukes ball had gone soft far too quickly, tilting the contest in favour of the batters. His comments echoed what several players and pundits had noted throughout the series — the ball simply wasn’t doing what it traditionally does in English conditions.

Former England fast bowler Stuart Broad also joined in, expressing concern about the quality drop in a product that has historically been known for maintaining shape and providing sustained movement. Broad called for immediate corrective steps, saying the integrity of the contest was being affected.

Responding to the criticism, Dilip Jajodia, owner of British Cricket Balls Ltd — the company responsible for manufacturing Dukes — told BBC Sport that the company would leave no stone unturned in its investigation. He said that every element, from the leather to the tanning process and other raw materials, would be looked into.

“We will take it away, inspect and then start talking to the tanner, talking about all of the raw materials — everything. Everything we do will be reviewed, and then if we think some changes need to be made or tightened up, we will,” said Jajodia.

The choice of ball in Test cricket usually lies with the host nation. India uses the SG ball, Australia uses the Kookaburra, while England prefers the Dukes, which is renowned for offering prolonged movement in seam-friendly conditions. However, in this series, that defining trait seemed to be missing.

There has been speculation around whether the changes in the ball are intentional to suit a more batting-friendly approach or if it’s purely a manufacturing lapse. Regardless, the debate has gained traction as teams and experts seek answers.

Despite the ball-related concerns, all three Tests have produced results, keeping the series finely balanced. Whether any adjustments will be made in time for the fourth Test remains unclear, but the scrutiny around the Dukes ball is unlikely to go away anytime soon.

– Ends