Gautam Gambhir advocated for a shift to Duke balls in IPL 2024, citing concerns over the Kookaburra’s durability.
The IPL 2024 season has seen some exceptional innings that made historic totals for teams. The latest being SRH’s record-breaking 287 runs against RCB. However, KKR mentor Gautam Gambhir has shared his opinions regarding the change of ball manufacturer, as he thinks the quality of the balls is the reason behind the batters punishing the bowlers.
Jos Buttler’s masterful batting secured a remarkable comeback win for the Rajasthan Royals against the Kolkata Knight Riders, who had earlier posted a challenging total of 223. This match has reignited the debate about cricket balls, with Gautam Gambhir advocating for a switch from the Kookaburra to the Duke.
“If a manufacturer cannot produce a ball that can last for 50 overs, it might as well change the manufacturer. There’s nothing wrong with changing the manufacturer. What is this compulsion with only using the Kookaburra?” Gambhir was quoted as saying this by the Times of India.
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While Gambhir’s opinions seem to be thought-provoking, Harsha Bhogle, another cricket expert, has opined on how using a duke ball can help the bowler. “I will reiterate this. We need greater balance between bat and ball, and in a situation where the pitches aren’t helping, the ball must do more in the air. How about a Duke ball, a ball with a more pronounced seam that allows more lateral movement and ensures batters can’t just hit through the line at will? I love to hear expert opinions on this,” Harsha Bhogle tweeted on his X handle.
Gambhir wants a shift to the Duke ball, and part of it seemed as a defence for his team’s most expensive purchase, Mitchell Starc, who himself has been expensive with his spell this season, leaking 232 runs in the six matches he has played. Nevertheless, Gambhir’s KKR will next face RCB on April 21st at the Eden Gardens.
Last Updated on April 17, 2024
