Manufacturer lashes out at 'pink' ball critics

Johannesburg: Manufacturer Kookaburra's managing director Brett Elliotthas hit back at the critics of the new 'pink ball', which is to be used in next month's first day-night Test match between Australia and New Zealand, saying it's a 'subtle' change and just the replication of a red ball.

Elliott asserted that the players are skilled enough to adapt the changing playing conditions, Sport24 reported.

He further backed the pink ball, saying that if the players can play with Duke ball or SG ball then they can play with the pink ball too.

Earlier, the pink ball received negative reviews from members of the Prime Ministers XI (Australia annual cricket match) following their one-day match against New Zealand.

Top-order Australian batsman Adam Voges had also criticized the pink ball, saying that it didn't hold up very well.

Meanwhile, new Australian skipper Steve Smith said that he is not worried about playing against the pink ball in day and night matches, and is looking forward to it.

He also felt that the pink ball would attract a greater audience and bring something new in cricket.

The first ever day-night Test between Australia and New Zealand will be played at the Adelaide Oval from November 27.