Mumbai : BCCI is mulling an option to play the Duleep Trophy matches with Pink Ball under the floodlights. BCCI tours and fixtures committee has recommended to the technical committee to consider the proposal .
A BCCI release said the committee discussed “various options” to attract more fans to Test matches. The idea of day-night Tests also has the support of India’s Test captain Virat Kohli. Kohli had earlier voiced his support for this format ahead of the Day Night test match between Australia and New Zealand at Adelaide .
“It is a step towards something innovative . If it is officially put into place it will be something exciting. As cricketers we all should be willing and accepting of the fact that we need to step forward and contribute to the game however possible. If this is a step towards improving the excitement and the popularity of Test cricket, then I think every team should be in for it.” added Kohli .
BCCI had earlier experimented the day and night format with the Ranji Trophy Final in 1996-97 when Mumbai faced Delhi in Gwalior. With Duleep Trophy scheduled to be held during the first class season in the winter the only problem is the dew factor. In Adelaide, the curator left some grass so that the ball didn’t lose its shine too early.