ICC allows pink ball in Tests to address bad light but Durban match unused option

The ICC changed its playing conditions last week so the pink ball can be used in Tests when bad light is expected. The tweak followed a trial earlier this year but still bars any mid-match switch from red to pink. Australia and South Africa never discussed using the pink ball before their first Test in Durban.

Bad light wiped out more than 60 overs across the first three days. Former South Africa bowler Shaun Pollock, who sat on the ICC committee that backed the change, says the pink ball still carries a stigma, so teams steer clear even when it would keep play going. The option stays open for future Tests where afternoon cloud is forecast.