Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir has supported the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) proposed changes in the playing conditions. The head coach welcomed the idea of switching from the traditional red ball to the pink ball when bad light affected the game and said that delivering results should remain the priority.
Gambhir shared his thoughts ahead of India’s one-off Test against Afghanistan. The upcoming match will be played at the Maharaja Yadvendra Singh International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh from June 6 to June 10 and could potentially be affected if modified playing conditions are implemented.
If there is an opportunity to get results, you should take advantage of it – Gautam Gambhir
Gautam Gambhir supported the ICC’s proposed rule changes and said that every possible effort should be made to deliver results in Test cricket. The India head coach believes that teams should not miss out on wins due to bad light, especially in important matches.
“I like it. In fact, I have always believed that if there is an opportunity to get a result, you should always have that opportunity,” Gautam Gambhir told reporters at the pre-match press conference.
“Imagine if you are playing the last Test match before the World Test Championship final and you have a chance to qualify by winning that Test match. And if that is not happening due to bad light, then I am ready for it.”
India are currently placed sixth in the WTC 2025-27 standings with 48.15 per cent of the points available from nine matches. They suffered a 2-0 defeat in the home series against South Africa, making every result even more important in the race to make the WTC final.
It may be difficult for the players, but it is a positive step – Gautam Gambhir
Gautam Gambhir admitted that switching from red ball to pink ball during a Test match can create challenges for the players. However, he believes the move is necessary if it helps reach the outcome of important matches.
“I know it may be a bit unfair and difficult for Test match players. But imagine two years of hard work and the last Test match before the World Test Championship final. If you don’t play five days due to bad light, how unfair can that be?”
“So I think it’s a proactive move. It’s a positive step and hopefully teams will start taking it in a positive way.”
ICC introduces pink ball trial to reduce low-light disruptions in Tests
The ICC introduced revised guidelines to maximize playing time in weather-affected matches. These changes are designed to help teams complete the stipulated number of overs each day, with the ICC and Marylebone Cricket Club also exploring new lighting solutions to reduce disruptions caused by poor lighting.
As part of the trial, teams will be allowed to use pink balls in Test matches when bad light is expected to affect play. The ICC believes this move can help reduce lost playing time and increase the chances of achieving results in the affected matches.
Under the proposed trial, match officials can introduce the pink ball only if both teams agree before the start of the match. India has the experience of day and night Test cricket, having played five pink ball Tests so far.
Also read: “Read the situation”: Gautam Gambhir sends strong message to Rishabh Pant after ignoring vice-captaincy