Broad Condemns Frequent Ball Changes, Demands Resolution

LONDON: Stuart Broad, the former England fast bowler, has voiced strong disapproval regarding the standard of the Dukes ball. This follows multiple interruptions during the third Test match between England and India at Lord’s. Broad described the recurring ball replacements as ‘unacceptable’.

Broad’s remarks were prompted by several Dukes ball replacements on the second day of the Test. Similar issues were observed during the initial two matches of the five-Test series.

India’s captain, Shubman Gill, showed his discontent with the ball’s state on Friday, July 11. This led umpires to examine and ultimately substitute the ball just 10.4 overs into the innings.

However, the replacement ball also quickly deteriorated. Within eight overs, it lost its shape, necessitating another change. Fast bowlers Akash Deep and Mohammed Siraj also seemed unhappy with the available replacement balls offered by the umpires.

These incidents are the latest in a series of problems impacting the Dukes ball throughout the competition. This pattern has caused concern among players and commentators, including Broad, who shared his views on commentary and social media.

Broad used X, previously known as Twitter, to express his annoyance. He repeatedly questioned the ball’s quality, using an analogy to highlight his concerns.

Broad’s Analogy

“The cricket ball should be like a fine wicketkeeper, barely noticed,” Broad posted.

Broad repeated his view that the frequent ball substitutions are unacceptable and urged for the matter to be addressed.

Broad’s Call for Action

“We are talking about the ball too much because it is such an issue, and it’s being changed virtually every innings. Unacceptable. It feels like it’s been five years now. Dukes have a problem, and they need to fix it. A ball should last 80 overs, not 10,” he stated.