The ball

4.1 Weight and size

The ball, when new, shall weigh not less than 5.5 ounces/155.9 g, nor more than 5.75 ounces/163 g, and shall measure not less than 8.81 in/22.4 cm, nor more than 9 in/22.9 cm in circumference.

4.2 Approval and control of balls

4.2.1 All balls to be used in the match, having been determined by the umpires, shall be in the possession of the umpires before the toss and shall remain under their control throughout the match.

4.2.2 The umpire shall take possession of the ball in use at the fall of each wicket, at the start of any interval and at any interruption of play.

4.3 New ball

Unless an agreement to the contrary has been made before the match, either captain may demand a new ball at the start of each innings.

4.4 New ball in match of more than one day’s duration

In a match of more than one day’s duration, the captain of the fielding side may demand a new ball when the number of overs, excluding any part overs, bowled with the old one is equal to or greater than 80 overs. The umpire shall inform the other umpire and indicate to the batters and the scorers whenever a new ball is taken into play.

4.5 Ball lost or becoming unfit for play

If, during play, the ball cannot be found or recovered or the umpires agree that it has become unfit for play through normal use, the umpires shall replace it with a ball which has had wear comparable with that which the previous ball had received before the need for its replacement. When the ball is replaced, the umpire shall inform the batters and the fielding captain.

4.6 Specifications

The specifications as described in 4.1 shall apply to men’s cricket only. The following specifications shall apply to:

4.6.1 Women’s cricket

Weight: from 4.94 ounces/140 g to 5.31 ounces/151 g

Circumference: from 8.25 in/21.0 cm to 8.88 in/22.5 cm.

4.6.2 Junior cricket – Under 13

Weight: from 4.69 ounces/133 g to 5.06 ounces/144 g

Circumference: from 8.06 in/20.5 cm to 8.69 in/22.0 cm.

© Marylebone Cricket Club 2017