Lahore
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has revealed that Dukes balls will be used in all red-ball domestic matches for the 2024/25 season, while Kookaburra balls will be used in seven World Test Championship matches.
According to the PCB, this change aims to improve the quality of domestic cricket by matching the balls to the unique conditions of local pitches. The Dukes balls will be tailored to fit the characteristics of Pakistani grounds.
For Pakistan’s international Test matches, Kookaburra balls will remain in use. This includes two upcoming Tests against Bangladesh, which will be played in Rawalpindi and Karachi, three Tests against England in October, and two Tests against the West Indies next year. The ICC allows home boards to choose the brand of ball used in their Test matches.
In domestic limited-overs formats, including 50-over and T20 games, the PCB will continue using Kookaburra balls to align with international standards, as Kookaburra is the preferred ball for all white-ball cricket and ICC events.
For grassroots cricket, such as U15, U17, and U19 tournaments, as well as school and club cricket, Aceline and Grays will be used.
Tony Hemming, the newly appointed Chief Curator, will oversee pitch preparations and ensure they are suited for the different types of cricket balls used throughout the season. He will also train local curators to ensure consistent playing conditions across regions.
