When Do You Get a New Ball in Cricket
The new ball is one of cricket's most significant tactical elements. Understanding when teams receive fresh balls in different formats explains much about bowling strategies and match dynamics.
New Ball Rules by Format
| Format | New Ball Available | Overs |
|---|---|---|
| Test cricket | After 80 overs | 80 |
| ODI cricket | Two new balls | 0 (one each end) |
| T20I cricket | One new ball | 0 |
Test Cricket
In Tests, a new ball becomes available after 80 overs of the old one. Captains can take it immediately or delay, depending on conditions and bowling resources.
The new ball swings and seams more, making it prized. Fast bowlers queue up for the fresh cherry, and its arrival often triggers wickets. Delaying is sometimes wise if spinners are dominating or the ball is reverse-swinging.
ODI Cricket
Since 2011, ODIs use two new balls, one from each end. This means the ball is never older than 25 overs, reducing reverse swing and favouring batters.
The change was controversial. Traditionalists miss the old ball's reverse swing; modernists note higher scores and more exciting cricket.
T20 Cricket
T20Is use one new ball for the 20-over innings. With only 120 balls, the ball stays relatively hard throughout, though it softens enough to affect strokeplay late on.
Strategic Implications
New ball decisions shape matches. Taking it immediately with fresh quicks can break partnerships; delaying can preserve reverse swing. Captains weigh pitch, overhead conditions and bowler workloads.
FAQs
When is the new ball due in Tests?
After 80 overs, the fielding captain can take a new ball immediately or delay the decision.
Why two balls in ODIs?
Introduced in 2011 to maintain ball hardness, though it reduced reverse swing and favoured batting.
Can you delay the new ball?
Yes. Captains often delay if the old ball is reverse-swinging or spinners are on top.
Does the new ball swing more?
Yes. The pronounced seam and shiny surface produce greater conventional swing and seam movement.
What is reverse swing?
With an old, rough ball, skilled bowlers can make it swing opposite to conventional direction, a lethal weapon.
How has the ball changed?
Modern balls, combined with two-new-ball ODIs, have generally favoured batters over the past decade.
Rivcky John
A prominent figure in sports journalism for the last two decades. Cricket Analyst & Writing News, Features, Match Previews/Reviews/Reports, And Opinion Pieces on Cricket. You can connect with him on Facebook also.