Babar Azam and Mike Hesson advocate for pink ball to combat bad light in Pakistan Tests

Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson has urged authorities to seriously consider implementing the pink ball for home Test matches during the winter months. The call follows a frustrating opening Test against Sri Lanka in Rawalpindi, where persistent issues with poor light and rain resulted in a total of 141 overs being lost throughout the contest.

The match, which ultimately ended in a draw, was plagued by frequent interruptions that prevented the teams from completing their scheduled playing hours. With the International Cricket Council (ICC) now permitting the use of pink balls in day Tests as a potential solution for visibility concerns, both the coaching staff and team leadership are evaluating whether this could mitigate the impact of deteriorating light conditions in future series.

Reflecting on the logistical challenges, Mike Hesson noted that playing Test cricket in Pakistan during this time of year presents inherent difficulties. He emphasized that since the ICC has provided the flexibility to use the pink ball, it is a viable option that warrants serious discussion for upcoming home assignments to ensure more consistent play.

Babar acknowledged the potential benefits of the proposal but stressed that any shift in policy would require adequate lead time for the squad to adjust their preparation. As the team looks ahead, the balance between maintaining playing time and ensuring players are properly equipped for the change remains the primary focus for the Pakistan camp.