Xtra Time Web Desk: There has already been a lot of talk about the ball that will be used in the upcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final between India and Australia to be played at the Oval from June 7-11. The confusion was created after former Australian captain Ricky Ponting mentioned at a promotional event that it could be the Kookaburra and not the Dukes, which is what is traditionally used in England.
The International Cricket Council (ICC), however, has clarified that it will indeed be the Dukes and not the Kookaburra that is used in the final. In cricket matches in United Kingdom they always go with the ball used locally. In this case, it will be the Dukes that’s the chosen one.
It is only fair that the Dukes ball will be used in the WTC final, for it is neutral to the two teams playing. In Australia, it is always the Kookaburra. Had it been used, it could be argued that the Australians would have started with an advantage. With the Dukes ball, it is a level playing field and both teams will need to adjust to the seam and the conditions. With quality fast bowlers lining up on both sides, and the ball offering assistance, batting will be the real challenge at The Oval.