India’s vice-captain Rishabh Pant has expressed frustration over the quality of the Dukes ball used in the ongoing Test series against England. Pant openly criticised the ball's behavior, joining teammate Shubman Gill, who recently raised similar concerns. Both players pointed out that the Dukes ball is losing its shape too quickly, which is affecting the quality of the game.

Speaking at a press conference, Pant added a humorous tone while making a serious point. “The gauge (to measure the balls) should be the same (whether it’s Dukes or Kookaburra). But it would be better if it was smaller (laughs),” he said.

He didn’t stop there. Pant added, “The balls are giving so much trouble.”

De-shaped Balls Causing Issues on Field

Pant looked visibly annoyed and explained that the balls haven’t held their shape properly across both Tests so far. “What I’ve seen, the ball is getting de-shaped too much. That has never happened like this to me,” he said.

He further explained the impact on the bowlers. “It’s definitely irritating for the players because every ball plays differently. When it becomes softer, sometimes it’s not doing too much,” he added.

These ball problems have led to frequent game interruptions. Bowlers and captains are constantly requesting ball changes, which is uncommon during English summers. As the ball softens quickly, the bowlers are struggling to get movement, making things easier for the batters. This has also damaged the Dukes ball's reputation for providing consistent seam.

Pant Speaks on Bowling Options for Lord’s

India dominated the second Test at Edgbaston with a 336-run win. The team used three pacers and two spinners—a mix that worked well.

However, Pant didn’t reveal the team’s bowling plan for the third Test at Lord’s. “We will get to know by tomorrow whether it would be 3-1 or 3-2. When you see the wicket two days, sometimes it changes the colour, the moisture will become less also,” he said.

Confident About Conditions

Pant also spoke about the pitch at Lord’s, which is expected to have more life than the flatter tracks in Leeds and Birmingham. He showed confidence in the team’s preparation.

“Whatever the condition is given to us, we are fine with it. We don’t want to think about what the opposition is thinking. Are they changing their plan or not,” he said.