Dilip Jajodia, the manufacturer of the Dukes cricket ball, has firmly responded to mounting criticism over the quality of the red ball being used in the ongoing England-India Test series. His comments come after multiple players, including India's Shubman Gill and England's Stuart Broad, raised concerns following two mid-innings ball changes during Day 2 of the third Test at Lord’s — an unusually high number within just 10 overs.
Jajodia defended the craftsmanship and complexity involved in producing cricket balls, noting that Dukes is one of only three ICC-recognised ball manufacturers globally, alongside SG and Kookaburra. He emphasized that consistent ball performance is not a simple feat and depends on several unpredictable external factors. “If making cricket balls was easy, there would be hundreds of manufacturers worldwide,” he said, warning critics to consider the livelihoods behind the industry before issuing public condemnation.
He further elaborated that conditions such as England’s variable weather, the physical strength of modern players, and the impact of powerful new bats all contribute to faster wear and tear of cricket balls. “Honestly, it’s a miracle the ball lasts 80 overs,” he remarked.
In response to pointed criticism from Indian players, Jajodia highlighted India’s recent success — particularly in the second Test — to question the basis for such strong complaints. “India won the last game, their captain scored the most runs, and two bowlers took six wickets each. So yes, I’m sorry about the inconvenience — but at least we’re playing cricket,” he said.
While the Dukes ball remains under scrutiny as the series progresses, no formal statement has yet been issued by the ICC, ECB, or BCCI regarding potential changes. Jajodia insisted that if a specific flaw is identified, the company will take appropriate steps to rectify it. But for now, he called for more measured criticism and appreciation of the ball-making craft.
