The Hard Truth About the Soft Dukes

The recurring theme of players appealing for a new ball due to its softness has been a quiet subplot in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. Despite the umpire's consistent response of "within limits, play on," the frequency and early timing of these appeals have drawn scrutiny, especially from teams struggling to get movement or bounce from the ball.

Rishabh Pant's frustration boiled over at Headingley, earning him a sanction, but it was also a revealing glimpse into the growing frustration among players. The Dukes ball, once prized for its seam and hardness, is now under an unkind light, with players finding it loses hardness too quickly.

England captain Ben Stokes suggested revisiting the tool of measurement, the gauge, considering the Dukes is hand-stitched unlike the machine-crafted Kookaburra. India's vice-captain called for a smaller gauge, citing the ball's tendency to get out of shape.

The issue is not new, but the chorus is louder now, especially in combination with the flat pitches that have propped up Bazball without offering much to the bowlers. A ball that gives up too soon tilts the balance long before the contest has truly begun, making it a crucial issue in a game built on fine margins.