The ECB say one thing that is not changing for the 100-ball competition in 2020 is the colour of the ball: it is a limited-overs competition, so it will remain white.
Ball companies, however, have other, brighter ideas. Dilip Jajodia, whose company makes Dukes balls, has long thought they should use an orange one for the competition.
Kookaburra’s orange and yellow balls are used in some junior and recreational cricket in Australia and the company also has purple balls ready for consideration. Neither has discussed the competition with the governing body yet.
Broadcasters love the pink ball because of the way it glows on TV and its novelty, and it seems unlikely that they would turn their nose up at another point of difference.
The consultation process for the 100-ball concept is now whirring into life.
The players’ displeasure is likely to be aired by their Professional Cricketers’ Association representatives at a meeting with the ECB next month.
Players are not happy about the clandestine process (the PCA’s chairman, Daryl Mitchell, knew about the plans but had to sign a non-disclosure agreement) or the idea itself. Their gravest concern surrounds the 10-ball over.
Cricket Australia have had a tough few weeks, but a moment’s relief was provided by this news last week. One official admitted that he had to check the date to make sure last Thursday was April 19th, not the first of the month.
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