The ongoing Test series between England and India has been marred by issues with the Dukes cricket balls, prompting an investigation by the manufacturer. The balls have been frequently replaced due to premature softening, causing delays and frustration for players and fans alike.

The Problem with Dukes Balls

The Dukes ball, a staple in English Test cricket since 1760, has recently shown signs of premature softening. This issue has been particularly evident in the first three Tests of the England vs India series. The balls have gone out of shape long before the standard 80-over mark, making it harder for bowlers to take wickets and disrupting the flow of the game.

Investigation Underway

Dilip Jajodia, owner of British Cricket Balls Ltd, which manufactures the Dukes balls, has confirmed that a thorough investigation is underway. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is collecting used balls to be examined by Dukes. Jajodia stated, "We will take it away, inspect and then start talking to the tanner, talking about all of the raw materials - everything."

Possible Causes

Several factors could be contributing to the problem:

• Raw Materials: The natural materials used in the ball's construction may have inherent weaknesses.
• Impact of COVID-19: The pandemic has disrupted supply chains and affected the availability of skilled personnel and chemicals used in the tanning process.
• Modern Game Dynamics: The increasing power of bats and harder playing surfaces may be accelerating the wear and tear on the balls.

Potential Solutions

Jajodia has suggested that the new ball could be introduced after 65 overs instead of 80, though this may not be a popular solution. Other alternatives include exploring different ball manufacturers or adjusting the conditions under which the balls are used.

The Future of Dukes Balls

Despite the current issues, Jajodia remains committed to improving the quality of the Dukes balls. "I can assure you we are on the case all of the time," he said. The manufacturer is working closely with tanneries to ensure that the balls meet the high standards expected in Test cricket.

Conclusion

The 'soft' ball controversy has brought significant attention to the quality of cricket balls in Test matches. As Dukes works to resolve the issue, the cricketing world watches closely, hoping for a solution that will restore the integrity of the game.