The International Cricket Council announced Monday that it will trial pink cricket balls in traditional daytime Test matches [1].
This shift addresses a long-standing issue in the sport where matches are frequently paused or ended prematurely due to poor visibility. By utilizing a ball with higher visibility, the ICC intends to maximize the amount of cricket played in each match and limit the frequency of bad-light stoppages [1], [2].
The trial will be implemented across all ICC member Test-playing nations [1], [3]. While pink balls have previously been used exclusively for day-night Test matches to ensure visibility under floodlights, this new initiative brings that technology into the daytime format. The primary objective is to ensure that the game is not interrupted by shifting weather conditions, or fading light, as the day progresses [2], [4].
Officials said the move is designed to increase the efficiency of the game. Because the pink ball is more visible to batters and umpires in varying light conditions, it may reduce the need for officials to call a halt to play when the natural light becomes insufficient for a traditional red ball [1], [2].
The announcement was made June 2, 2026 [1]. The ICC has not yet specified the exact number of matches that will be part of the trial phase, or the specific criteria that will determine if the pink ball becomes a permanent fixture for all daytime Tests [1], [3].
“The ICC intends to maximize the amount of cricket played in each match.”
This trial represents a significant departure from the traditions of Test cricket, which has relied on the red ball for over a century. By prioritizing playing time over traditional equipment, the ICC is acknowledging that the unpredictability of 'bad light' stoppages can negatively impact the competitive integrity and commercial viability of long-format matches.
