The Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025 is currently being played between India and England, with the third Test underway at Lord’s since 10 July. The series is using the Dukes ball, but players have raised concerns about its quality. On Day 2 of the Lord’s Test, India had to change the ball twice due to dissatisfaction with its condition.
The Dukes company was originally established in 1760 by the Dukes family. In 1987, Indian businessman Dilip Jajodia acquired it. Interestingly, the balls used in the series are partly sourced from Meerut, India, before receiving their final finishing touches in the UK.
Speaking to PTI, Jajodia addressed the ongoing controversy, asking players to be patient. He acknowledged that the company, with its roots in the 18th century, is ready to upgrade the ball considering the unusually hot UK weather and modern-day cricket’s demands, where batsmen hit powerfully with heavy bats.
During the morning session of Day 2 at Lord’s, the Dukes ball was replaced twice. Even after changing a 10-over-old ball, Indian players were still unhappy, prompting another replacement within minutes.
Jajodia pointed out that only three certified cricket ball manufacturers exist globally – Dukes, SG, and Kookaburra. “Making cricket balls isn’t easy,” he said. “If it were, there’d be hundreds of manufacturers around the world.”
He added, “Players must understand that we’re not sitting idle. If there’s an issue, we’ll review it. We’ll find the root of the problem—be it leather quality or something else. I’m not just sitting back and smoking cigars.”
On the players’ criticism, he said, “Superstars can raise concerns—they’re the ones paying for the product. I just want to create what they want. But people should be careful not to just criticise me or the ball. Many people work behind the scenes. Jobs are on the line, so we must be mindful and generous in our judgments.”
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Gill, Pant, and Broad Have Raised Concerns
Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant have said the ball softens quickly and loses shape. England’s former pacer Stuart Broad and ex-captain Nasser Hussain have also questioned the ball’s quality.
Why Is the Ball Getting Damaged Quickly?
Jajodia attributes this to hot weather, ground conditions, modern heavy bats, and powerful strokes. Balls now often hit boundary walls, which naturally affects their condition. He added that no discussion has taken place with the ECB yet, as the Test series is ongoing and hasty decisions must be avoided.
Dukes Ball in India – Expansion Plans
Currently, SG balls are used in India’s international and domestic matches. But Jajodia wants to expand Dukes’ presence. He has registered an office in Bengaluru and spoken with the BCCI. Now, Dukes balls will be finished in India as well.
Brijesh Patel will lead Dukes India operations. Jajodia aims for Dukes balls to be used not only in international and first-class cricket but also in state and club-level matches.
He stated, “For good quality, one must be willing to pay more. You can’t get a high-quality ball for ₹400.” While Jajodia is taking player criticism seriously, he is also working to improve the ball. Dukes is preparing to strengthen its presence in India.
Meerut to UK: The Dukes Ball Journey
Currently, the company sources balls from Meerut, but they are fully manufactured in the UK. Jajodia said, “Until now, I was buying balls from Meerut and finishing them in the UK. But now we’ll start finishing them in India too. We believe the timing is right—India is a cricketing powerhouse. I’ve spoken with BCCI officials, and they’re testing the balls.”
Can Dukes Replace SG in India?
When asked if Dukes could replace SG in Indian cricket, Jajodia responded that the BCCI encourages competition. “It’s sensible. You can’t have a monopoly. Currently, SG essentially has a monopoly, even though many manufacturers exist.”