The balls are also different in type of leather and depending on the format and the conditions. Red, pink, and white cricket balls are all made from leather but serve a different purpose on the field. The ways they behave, their lifespan, and even how players view them in a game differ across the balls. It becomes very important to understand those differences in knowing how each ball impacts the game of cricket. Material of the Balls Image Source: Scott Oliver The three basic materials that make up a leather cricket ball are cork, string, and leather. The core of the ball is cork, which provides the ball with rigidity. Cork cores are then wound very tightly with the best string, forming the spherical shape of the ball. Four pieces of leather are carefully stitched together to make the covering of the ball. Also Read | CSK all-time greatest playing 11 in IPL history Usage of the Balls Image Source: cricheroes White Balls: These balls are designed for Twenty-20 and One-Day matches where visibility under the lights becomes high. Also, the construction is such that they last the heavy hitting by the batsman without changing their shape and size for at least 50 overs. Red Balls: Red leather cricket balls have been used in test and first-class matches since the history of cricket due to the striking red appearance under sunlight. These balls offer excellent swing and bounce, especially in the initial 15 overs, and then start reverse swinging, usually beyond the 40th over. Pink Balls: They are specifically designed for the day-night test match. They retain excellent swing and bounce even after 40 overs, making them appropriate for longer formats of the game. Physical Characteristics of the Balls Image Source: cricheroes Visibility: White balls are the first choice for night matches, as they are visible with more brightness under floodlights. Pink balls are specifically used in day-night test matches and provide better visibility in floodlights. Weight and Coating: Pink balls are only marginally heavier than cricket balls that have a coat. White cricket balls, on the other hand, are very heavy, much polished in contrast to the pink ball. Quality: Red balls are very long-lasting and can easily survive for at least 80 overs in Test matches. White balls, although they are durable, are best suited for limited-overs cricket. Pink balls are extremely durable and best suited for Test and limited-overs cricket. Durability of the Balls Image Source: cricheroes White Balls: Despite their incredible hardness, which can withstand the sinful hitting of the willow against them, white cricket balls decay faster than red balls. Red Balls: Red Balls are said to be more resilient and can last for at least 80 overs in Test matches. Pink Balls: These balls are very hard-wearing and durable, so their color will last for much longer. They are suitable for both Test and limited-overs cricket matches. Also Read | How Much is BCCI Net Worth? The Net Worth Revealed! Coloring Process and Variations Image Source: Indian Mart Pink Leather Balls: Unlike the manufacturing process of red balls, the bright pink color that the pink leather balls obtain will be through the application of a pigment on the surface that will then have a layer applied of PU to protect its surface from wear and tear. Red Balls: Red leather balls get dyed in a red hue during the manufacturing process that gives them this stunning color, cherry red, which shines brightly in sunlight during test matches. White Balls: White balls are manufactured out of alum-tanned leather that becomes tougher to break and wear. It gets dyed into white and polished to make it shinier than the other two deliveries. Seam and stitching differences Image Source: cricheroes Durability and grip: The seam of the pink leather ball is stiffer and more apparent than that of the red cricket ball. This superior grip is helpful for the bowlers, especially for fast bowlers. Linen in the seam of the pink ball also allows it to absorb dew for better grip in wet conditions. Seam Color and Material: All the red leather balls have a seam completely made of synthetic and stitched using white thread. Pink balls also have a seam made of a blend of synthetic and linen and stitched using black thread. Conclusion In conclusion, red, white, and pink cricket balls each have their own unique purposes when it comes to the game of cricket. Red balls will always be the traditional choice of Test matches, while whites dominate limited-overs games, and pink balls bring day-night Test matches into life. Each ball, therefore, has its characteristic features and understanding that makes us appreciate the game even more. Whether you’re a player or a fan, knowing about these cricket balls adds an extra layer of excitement to every match.