India’s first Pink Ball Test was on November 22, 2019. It was at Eden Gardens in Kolkata, against Bangladesh. India dominated this landmark match. They won by an innings and 49 runs. Both the bat and the ball delivered outstanding performances.
Let’s dive into the details of this game and explore the significance of Pink Ball Tests in modern cricket.
What Is a Pink Ball Test?
Players participate in Pink Ball Tests, or Day/Night Tests. They are played under floodlights with a pink cricket ball. The ICC created this format to boost Test cricket’s evening viewership.
The pink ball was chosen for its better visibility than the red one, especially under lights. The first-ever Pink Ball Test was held between Australia and New Zealand in November 2015.
Why Is a Pink Ball Used in Day/Night Tests?
The pink ball is more visible under stadium lights than the red ball, making it ideal for Day/Night Tests. You might wonder why the white ball, used in limited-overs cricket, isn’t chosen instead. The reason is the white jerseys worn by Test cricket players. They would make the white ball hard to see.
India’s First Pink Ball Test Match: Key Highlights
India faced Bangladesh in their first-ever Pink Ball Test at the Eden Gardens. The game unfolded as a showcase of India’s dominant cricketing prowess.
First Innings: Bangladesh Struggles Against Indian Pacers
- Bangladesh Total: 106 all out
- Standout Performer: Ishant Sharma took 5 wickets for 22 runs in 12 overs. His spell was devastating.
- The Indian pacers, led by Ishant, dismantled Bangladesh’s batting lineup with ease.
India’s Reply: Virat Kohli Shines
- India Total: 347/9 declared
- Top Scorer: Indian captain Virat Kohli dazzled with a knock of 136 runs off 194 balls. His innings was a masterclass in Test batting, setting India on the path to a commanding lead.
Second Innings: Pacers Dominate Again
- Bangladesh Total: 195 all out
- Bowling Highlights:
- Umesh Yadav: 5 wickets
- Ishant Sharma: 4 wickets
- The Indian pace attack proved too strong for Bangladesh yet again, ensuring an easy win.
Result: A Comprehensive Victory for India
India’s first Pink Ball Test was memorable. They defeated Bangladesh by an innings and 49 runs. This victory also showed India’s growing dominance in Tests under Virat Kohli’s leadership.
A New Era in Indian Cricket
India’s entry into Pink Ball Test cricket was a milestone. It blended tradition with innovation. The Eden Gardens Test showed that Day/Night matches can captivate fans. They can do this while keeping the spirit of Test cricket.
As India embraces the Pink Ball format, this debut shows the team’s skill and adaptability.