A cricket ball plays an important role in the game. It is the condition of the ball that defines most of the strategies in every format of the sport. Managed by the board that conducts the game, it is interesting to know what happens to these cherries once the game gets over. In this article, we answer the question, what happens to the balls after each cricket match that takes place at the highest level.
A cricket ball
As per Wikipedia, “A cricket ball consists of a cork core wound with string then a leather cover stitched on, and manufacture is regulated by cricket law at first-class level.” While a red ball is used in Tests, the whiter version of the delivery is utilized in the shorter formats. Of course, the pink ball has made an entry in recent years. According to British Standard BS 5993, the balls for senior-level men games should weigh between 156 to 163 g and should have a circumference of 224 to 229 mm. Some of the popular manufacturer balls used are Kookaburra balls, Dukes and SG Balls.
What happens to the balls after each cricket match?
There are various things that could happen to a ball after a game. Of course, if damaged or worn out, the balls could be disposed. At times, they are also kept for practice since a few players might want to practice with such balls. It could also be sent to the junior levels or other divisions for practice purposes. A completely damaged ball’s cork can be re-used for preparing a new ball.
If the ball is not worn out much, it could be used in another game where are replacement ball will be required. Sometimes, the balls could get lost and the fate of these cherries will lie with the lucky viewers.
If the ball has been used for an important occasion, it can be auctioned. It could also be stored at the stadium. A few bowlers own the ball with which they do well. Recently, we have also seen a few fans being gifted the signed balls for winning a competition. These are some of the things that could happen to a ball after the game.
