Introduction: Why T20 Cricket Ball Weight Matters
In cutting-edge cricket, each small detail can make a large difference — and the load of the cricket ball is one of the most critical factors. Whether it’s a fiery over from a fast bowler or a spin wizard turning the ball sharply, the T20 cricket ball weight impacts how the sport unfolds.
The T20 cricket ball weight are strictly governed by using the International Cricket Council (ICC). This guarantees uniformity throughout all formats — Test, ODI, and T20. However, the T20 format calls for precise ball requirements because of its speedy-paced, excessive-depth nature.
In this precise manual, we’ll discover:
Table of Contents
Official T20 Cricket Ball Weight and Size (According to ICC)
The International Cricket Council (ICC) defines clean parameters for the weight and circumference of the cricket ball used in global T20 suits. T20 cricket ball weight.
Below is the reliable specification table:
| Category | Ball Weight | Circumference | Color Used | Governing Body |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Men’s T20 Ball | 155.9 g – 163 g (5.5 oz – 5.75 oz) | 22.4 cm – 22.9 cm (8.81 in – 9 in) | White | ICC |
| Women’s T20 Ball | 140 g – 151 g (4.94 oz – 5.31 oz) | 21 cm – 22.5 cm (8.26 in – 8.86 in) | White | ICC |
| Junior / Under-15 Ball | 133 g – 144 g (4.69 oz – 5.08 oz) | 20.5 cm – 22 cm (8.07 in – 8.66 in) | Red/White | ICC / Domestic Boards |
Note:
- White balls are utilized in all confined-overs formats, which includes T20 Internationals.
- Red balls are basically for Test cricket, and purple balls are utilized in Day-Night Tests.
Understanding Why Ball Weight Matters in T20 Cricket
The weight of the cricket ball without delay influences how it behaves in exceptional conditions:
- Bowling Speed & Swing:
- Heavier balls offer extra balance and may swing less in humid conditions. Lighter ones are easier to grip and manage for spin bowlers.
- Batting Impact:
- A slightly heavier ball generates more leap, making it difficult for batters to time their shots perfectly.
- Fielding & Throwing:
- Properly weighted balls are essential for correct throws and regular catching at some point of high-intensity fits.
Construction of a T20 cricket ball weight
A trendy T20 ball has 4 pieces of leather stitched together with a sturdy seam. Inside, a cork and rubber center guarantees ideal balance, soar, and sturdiness.
| Part | Material Used | Purpose / Function |
|---|---|---|
| Core | Cork with rubber mixture | Provides bounce and weight balance |
| Outer Layer | High-quality leather | Durability and swing control |
| Seam | Linen stitching (hand-stitched) | Aids bowlers in seam movement |
| Polish / Lacquer | Synthetic wax | Helps maintain shine and swing |
👉 Fun Fact:
Kookaburra and Dukes are two popular manufacturers that manufacture ICC-accredited T20 cricket ball weight.
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Red Ball vs White Ball vs Pink Ball – Which Is Used in T20?
| Ball Type | Used In | Color Visibility | Swing Behavior | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Red Ball | Test Matches | Good in daylight | Long-lasting swing | High |
| White Ball | ODI & T20 | Excellent under floodlights | Early swing, fades faster | Moderate |
| Pink Ball | Day-Night Tests | Best for twilight visibility | Balanced swing | Good |
➡️ T20 fits exclusively use white balls because of better visibility under floodlights and shorter layout necessities.
ICC Regulations for Cricket Ball Use in T20s
The ICC Men’s T20 Playing Conditions (2025 version) specifies key guidelines regarding the use of cricket balls:
- Only white Kookaburra or permitted brands may be utilized in global T20 matches.
- The ball ought to be replaced if it becomes discolored or broken.
- Teams are not allowed to shine with synthetic substances (like saliva or wax).
- Only 2 new balls are used consistent with innings in ODIs, but one ball in step with innings in T20s.
- Umpires check out the ball at normal intervals to make sure fairness.
T20 Ball Specifications for Domestic Leagues (Examples)
| League Name | Ball Manufacturer | Color Used | Weight Range | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IPL (India) | SG White Ball | White | 155.9g – 163g | Waterproof finish, strong seam |
| BBL (Australia) | Kookaburra Turf | White | 156g – 162g | Synthetic lacquer for shine |
| CPL (Caribbean) | Kookaburra Turf | White | 155g – 163g | High bounce & durability |
| PSL (Pakistan) | CA / Kookaburra | White | 156g | Weather-resistant coating |
| The Hundred (UK) | Dukes White Ball | White | 156g | Extra hand-stitched seam |
Ball Maintenance During T20 Matches
Since T20 cricket includes fast scoring and aggressive play, retaining the ball’s condition is important.
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Key Maintenance Rules:
- Players are allowed to rub the ball on clothing to preserve shine.
- Artificial sharpening materials are banned.
- If the ball receives wet because of dew or rain, umpires can also replace it.
- Fielding facets often shine one half of the ball to assist swing bowling.
Proper renovation guarantees constant performance for both bowlers and batters.
Interesting Facts About T20 cricket ball weight
- The common existence of a T20 ball is about 20 overs, and then it loses shine.
- White balls swing extra initially, then get softer fast, favoring batters inside the later overs.
- Manufacturers like Kookaburra and SG use vegetable tanning to enhance the durability of white leather.
- Some leagues are experimenting with UV-coated balls for higher night visibility.
Difference Between Men’s and Women’s T20 Balls
| Feature | Men’s Ball | Women’s Ball |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 155.9g – 163g | 140g – 151g |
| Circumference | 22.4 – 22.9 cm | 21 – 22.5 cm |
| Bounce | Higher | Slightly lower |
| Durability | More durable | Lighter leather layer |
| Usage | ICC Men’s T20 | ICC Women’s T20 |
Women’s cricket balls are barely lighter to improve control, grip, and flight throughout gameplay.
Comparison: Test Ball vs ODI Ball vs T20 Ball
| Format | Ball Type | Color | Overs Used | Weight | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Test | Dukes / SG / Kookaburra | Red | 80+ overs | 156g | High |
| ODI | Kookaburra White | White | 50 overs | 156g | Medium |
| T20 | Kookaburra / SG White | White | 20 overs | 156g | Moderate |
Tips for Choosing the Right Cricket Ball for T20 Practice
If you’re a club or beginner cricketer, choosing the appropriate T20 ball allows simulate fit situations better.
Buying Tips:
- Check weight: Ensure it’s among 155.9g–163g for men or 140g–151g for ladies.
- Brand topics: SG, Kookaburra, and Dukes are ICC-accepted.
- Color: Always use white for restricted-overs practice.
- Seam power: A strong, reported seam allows with grip and swing.
- Conditioning: Use light polishing for durability.
Conclusion: The Science Behind the Perfect T20 Ball
The T20 cricket ball weight is extra than just a number of — it’s a balance among physics, craftsmanship, and gameplay dynamics. A few grams can exchange the trajectory of a delivery or the timing of a boundary shot.
By following ICC standards and retaining proper ball situations, cricket authorities ensure honest and thrilling matches international. Whether you’re a fan, player, or instruct, know-how the science behind T20 cricket ball weight deepens your appreciation for the modern sport’s precision and Ardour.

