The ongoing Anderson-Tendulkar series has faced criticism over the quality of Duke balls and how quickly they deteriorate. This issue started during the 2nd Test and escalated when the Indian skipper requested a new ball after the second new ball had been used for just 10 overs during the first innings at Lord’s.
Experts have also expressed concern about Duke balls being replaced after only 10-15 overs in the recent Test, whereas a red ball is typically expected to retain its shape for around 80 overs in a Test match.
Alastair Cook Takes a Lighthearted Swipe at Bowlers Complaining About Duke Ball Quality
Speaking to BBC Sport, former England skipper Alastair Cook humorously criticized the bowlers complaining about the Duke ball’s quality.
“I just love how bowlers are always moaning. It’s like they bowl a bad ball, and it’s never their fault. They’ve scrapped the footmark.”
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Cook added that bowlers tend to blame the ball when they bowl poorly:
“If they bowl a bad ball, they look at the ball and blame its shape. I think a batsman would much rather hit a slightly harder ball. Nothing is worse than playing a lovely cover drive like I used to, and it going nowhere,” he said.
Duke Ball Maker Responds to Criticism
Dilip Jajodia, owner of British Cricket Balls Ltd., defended the Duke balls, noting that changes in playing conditions can affect the ball’s durability.
“People often ask if the balls made now are different from last year. No, we make the balls to specification using the very best raw materials. I assure you, we take this hugely seriously. When you look at any ball objectively, it’s a small round object that’s been battered all day. Expecting it to remain perfectly in shape all day is impossible. We don’t want our reputation tarnished because we aren’t making the product properly,” Jajodia told the Hindustan Times.
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He also mentioned that no balls can maintain their shape for 80 overs in today’s aggressive style of Test cricket, like Bazball. He suggested reducing the ball replacement interval to 60 overs and emphasized the company’s commitment to quality.
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