Lahore: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has finalized its selection of cricket balls for the 2024-25 season, tailoring choices to enhance gameplay under specific local conditions as the domestic cricket season approaches.
According to Pakistan Cricket Board, Duke balls will be used for all senior red-ball domestic events, chosen for their compatibility with the local pitches as determined by detailed ground and pitch condition analyses. For developmental and grassroots levels, including U15 to U19 tournaments and school to inter-district competitions, the PCB has opted for local brands Aceline and Grays. This selection aims to support the development of younger players and adapt to the diverse playing conditions across the country.
For white-ball formats, the PCB will continue to use Kookaburra balls in domestic 50-over and T20 competitions, aligning with the standards used in international cricket, including ICC events. The decision extends to the seven ICC World Test Championship matches scheduled for the season, featuring contests against Bangladesh, England, and the West Indies, where Kookaburra balls will also be utilized.
Newly appointed Chief Curator Tony Hemming is set to play a pivotal role in preparing pitches that suit these specified balls, ensuring that the playing surfaces provide a fair contest between bat and ball. Hemming will also oversee the training of local curators to standardize pitch quality across various venues.