Shaun Pollock Advocates for Pink Ball Use Amid Bad Light Challenges in Durban Test

In a recent Test match between South Africa and Australia, Shaun Pollock has proposed the use of pink balls to mitigate the impact of bad light on gameplay. As the Proteas face a challenging run chase, Pollock emphasizes the need for captains to consider this option to avoid losing crucial overs. Meanwhile, Ashwell Prince defends the traditional red ball, highlighting the challenges of reaching a consensus among captains. The match has seen significant interruptions due to light conditions, raising questions about the future of Test cricket in such scenarios. Read on for a detailed overview of the match and the ongoing discussions around ball usage.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 13, 2026, 10:19 IST

Pollock Proposes Pink Ball Solution for Bad Light Issues

Shaun Pollock, the former all-rounder from South Africa, has suggested that teams should consider using pink balls during Test matches when bad light poses a challenge. This call comes as the Proteas face a daunting run chase on the final day of their Test against Australia in Durban, where play has been halted due to poor visibility. Currently, the Proteas are at 102/4, needing 421 runs to win. Throughout the first three days of this crucial match, play was frequently interrupted by bad light, resulting in both teams missing out on potentially pivotal overs. By the start of the fourth day, only 221 of the scheduled 270 overs had been bowled, although play was able to continue on Monday as the clouds cleared.

ICC Approves Pink Ball Trial

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has recently approved the use of pink balls in day Test matches, contingent upon the agreement of both team captains. According to the ICC's announcement, this trial aims to minimize the loss of play due to bad light. The new playing condition stipulates that the decision to use a pink ball must be made before the match begins and remains in effect for its entirety. Once the match starts, switching from a red to a pink ball is prohibited.

Pollock, speaking to Fox Sports, encouraged captains to embrace the pink ball option when light conditions are likely to be problematic. He stated, "I am not suggesting we should have played a day-night game, but I believe using the pink ball during the day could be beneficial. If we stick to the red ball, we risk losing valuable overs due to bad light, whereas the pink ball allows for continued play."

Prince Supports Traditional Red Ball

Ashwell Prince, a former South African batsman and current senior assistant coach, defended the traditional red ball, asserting that Test cricket should primarily utilize it. He remarked, "For me, outside of a day-night Test, it has to be a red ball. Some nations have more experience with pink ball cricket than others, making it challenging to reach a consensus between captains."

Prince expressed concerns that some teams might lack sufficient experience with the pink ball, complicating the agreement process. He concluded, "In my view, Test matches should be played with the red ball."

Durban Test: Match Overview

In the ongoing chase for 421 runs, Aiden Markram (45*) and Wiaan Mulder (5*) remain not out. Australia opted to bat first, scoring 390 runs, largely thanks to a remarkable 190 runs off 397 balls by Matt Renshaw. The Proteas managed 284 in their second innings, with Simon Harmer (35*) and Keshav Maharaj (34) helping to reduce the deficit to just over 100 runs. Australia later declared their second innings at 314/6, with Renshaw (82 off 99 balls, including seven fours), Nic Maddison (48 off 33 balls, featuring six fours and two sixes), and captain Pat Cummins (32* off 12 balls, hitting four sixes) showcasing aggressive batting to set a target of 421 runs for victory.