Gautam Gambhir’s big statement on the new rule. (Photo- PTI)
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has approved a revolutionary rule to make Test cricket more exciting and prevent the loss of overs due to bad light. Under this new decision of the ICC, if there is less sunlight or poor lighting during the day match, then with the consent of both the teams, the pink ball can be used by turning on the floodlights. Indian team head coach Gautam Gambhir has given a big statement on this decision of ICC.
ICC enters new rule in test cricket
Indian team head coach Gautam Gambhir has strongly supported this historic ICC trial. During the press conference before the one-off Test match against Afghanistan, Gambhir said that this decision is very positive in terms of getting results in the game. Generally, due to bad light, play in Test matches has to be stopped prematurely, due to which many overs are wasted and the match moves towards a draw.
According to the decision taken in the ICC board meeting, the match will start with the red ball only. If visibility is poor during the match, floodlights on the ground will be switched on to improve lighting. But the red ball is not clearly visible in the floodlights, so during that time the pink ball will be used so that the game can continue. This rule will be effective from October 1 and for this it is mandatory to have prior consent of both the teams.
Gautam Gambhir’s big statement on the new rule
Gambhir said before the Test match against Afghanistan, ‘I like this rule. The reason for this is that I always believe that if there is a chance to withdraw, you should always have that chance. Imagine that you are playing the last test match before the World Test Championship final and you have a chance to qualify by winning that test match. This is not happening due to bad lighting. If there is a chance to get a result and both the teams agree on it, then I am ready for it.
However, Gambhir admitted that the change from red to pink ball in the same match could be a big problem for the players. He said, ‘I know it may be a bit difficult for players who have played Test matches, but imagine working hard for two years and this is the last Test match before the World Test Championship final.’
