The IPL is the world's most popular T20 cricket league. The official match ball used in the IPL is the Kookaburra Turf White, made in Australia. This ball features a four-piece construction with a five-layer quilted core wrapped in high-quality cork and wrapped with wool yarn around a rubber core. It weighs between 155.9 grams (5.5 ounces) and 163 grams (5.75 ounces). Cricket ball weights are determined by the Marylebone Cricket Club Cricket Laws, which apply to all professional formats including Tests, ODIs, and T20s.
The Kookaburra Turf White used in IPL matches is designed to meet the official weight and size standards set by the MCC. This ensures consistency and fairness across all professional cricket formats. The ball's construction includes a waterproofed leather cover, fine linen stitching, and a five-layer quilted center, all contributing to its durability and performance under the lights of night matches.
While the weight and size of the cricket ball remain consistent across different formats, there are notable differences in color, construction, and usage characteristics. The following table summarizes these differences:
Format | Ball Color | Weight Range (grams) | Circumference (cm) | Key Features |
IPL/T20 | White | 155.9 – 163 | 22.4 – 22.9 | Designed for visibility under lights; lacquered finish for durability |
ODI | White | 155.9 – 163 | 22.4 – 22.9 | Similar to IPL ball; used in day matches |
Test | Red | 155.9 – 163 | 22.4 – 22.9 | Traditional color; used in longer formats |
Women's | Red/Pink | 140 – 151 | 21.0 – 22.5 | Lighter weight for better control and spin |
The primary differences lie in the color of the ball, which affects visibility and wear characteristics, and the lacquer coating, which influences the ball's behavior during play.
The weight of the cricket ball plays a crucial role in its behavior during a match. Heavier balls tend to offer more bounce and are less susceptible to swing, while lighter balls may swing more but offer less bounce. The standard weight range ensures a balance between these characteristics, providing a fair playing field for both bowlers and batsmen.
Additionally, the construction of the ball, including the type of leather used and the internal layers, affects its durability and performance. For instance, the Kookaburra Turf White's five-layer quilted center and waterproofed leather cover contribute to its longevity and consistent performance throughout the match.
The Kookaburra Turf White used in IPL matches undergoes a meticulous manufacturing process to ensure its quality and performance. Each ball is made from selected first-grade white steer hide, with a four-piece construction and a five-layer quilted center. The internal layers consist of top-quality cork wound with worsted yarn on a rubber nucleus, encased in a waterproofed leather cover with fine linen stitching.
This rigorous manufacturing process ensures that each ball meets the official weight and size standards and performs consistently under the demanding conditions of IPL matches.
Also Check: IPL Cricket Ball Price
IPL-approved cricket balls, such as the Kookaburra Turf White, can be purchased through official retailers and online platforms. It's important to ensure that the ball is manufactured to the official specifications to guarantee its quality and performance.
The weight of a cricket ball used in T20 matches is the same as that used in other professional formats, ranging from 155.9 grams (5.5 oz) to 163 grams (5.75 oz).
Among standard cricket balls, the weight ranges are as follows:
Men's Cricket Ball: 155.9 – 163 grams
Women's Cricket Ball: 140 – 151 grams
Junior Cricket Ball: 133 – 143 grams
Therefore, the men's cricket ball is the heaviest among standard cricket balls.