How heavy is a cricket ball, and when is a new one used?
Officials' detail · What are the pitch, the ball and the bat? · 3 of 5A men's cricket ball weighs 156 to 163 grams (5.5 to 5.75 ounces) and measures 22.4 to 22.9 cm round. Each innings starts with a new ball. In Tests the fielding side can take another new ball after 80 overs. In ODIs each side uses two new balls, one from each end, until over 34, then picks one for the rest.
How it works
- The umpires control the balls throughout and take the ball at every wicket and interruption. They inspect it regularly.
- A lost ball, or one that becomes unfit through normal use, is replaced by one with similar wear.
- In internationals, the fielding captain picks the new ball from at least six, under the fourth umpire's supervision.
- ODIs and T20 internationals use white balls.
- ODI matches cut to 25 overs or fewer a side before the start use one new ball per innings.
- In Tests, a ball that has to be replaced after 110 overs is replaced with a new ball.
- Smaller sizes (2 and 3) are used in women's and junior cricket.
Tricky cases
When can a team take the new ball in a Test?
After 80 overs with the old one. It is the fielding captain's choice, not a requirement.
Why does an ODI use two balls?
To keep the ball harder and whiter for longer. Under the current rules, the second ball is dropped after over 34.
Can a team ask for the ball to be changed?
Only the umpires decide. They replace a ball that is lost or unfit through normal use; a ball damaged deliberately is a matter of unfair play.
Why the rule exists
The ball's condition shapes the contest: a new ball swings and bounces more, an old one may spin or reverse swing. Fixed rules on new balls keep that fair to both sides.
Where it differs
| Where | New ball | Source |
|---|---|---|
| The Laws | Either captain may demand one at the start of each innings; after 80 overs in matches of more than one day | L4.3, 4.4 |
| ICC men's Tests | One per innings; another available after 80 overs; a replacement after 110 overs is new | PC-T 4.3 to 4.5 |
| ICC men's ODIs | Two per innings, one from each end, until over 34; then one of them for the rest. One ball if cut to 25 overs before the start | PC-O 4.3 |
| ICC men's T20 internationals | One per innings | PC-I 4.3 |
From the rule book
MCC Laws of Cricket, Law 4, 4th Edition, in force from 1 October 2026. ICC men's playing conditions, clause 4, October 2026. Checked 13 October 2026. Official documents: MCC Laws of Cricket (PDF); ICC playing conditions (PDF).