Day-night Tests were introduced by the International Cricket Council (ICC) in 2015 to boost viewership and bring a fresh level of excitement to the longest format of cricket.
These matches use a pink ball instead of the traditional red one, ensuring better visibility under artificial lights. The pink ball’s unique characteristics, especially its increased lateral movement during the evening sessions, make it more challenging for batters. This added swing has often given bowlers an edge, enabling teams to dismiss their opponents faster than anticipated.
5. West Indies vs Sri Lanka, 2018, Bridgetown – 1201 balls
The day-night test between West Indies and Sri Lanka in Bridgetown in 2018 lasted only 200.1 overs in all. West Indies batted first and were dismissed for 204 runs in 69 overs. In reply, Sri Lanka were knocked over for only 154 in 59 overs.
In the second innings, West Indies suffered a horrible collapse to get bundled for 93 runs. Sri Lanka then chased the 144-run target successfully with four wickets in hand. Jason Holder was named Player of the Match for 74 runs and nine wickets in the game.
4. Australia vs India, 2020, Adelaide – 1031 balls
One of the most memorable test matches between Australia and India was played at the Adelaide Oval in December 2020 in the day-night setting. This game ended on the third day.
Batting first, India were all out for 244 runs (93 overs). Australia’s reply was even shorter: 191 runs in 72 overs. The major twist in the game happened in the third innings when Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins combined to bowl out the visitors for their lowest-ever test total of 36 runs. Australia won the test by eight wickets and the game concluded in 1031 balls.
3. India vs Bangladesh, 2019, Kolkata – 968 balls
Eden Gardens has hosted several memorable test matches. One of them was India’s first day-night test match, which was against Bangladesh in 2019. It ended in just 968 balls. Bangladesh scored 106 runs (31 overs) and 195 runs (42 overs) in their two innings. On the other hand, India scored 347/9d runs (90 overs) and won the game by an innings and 46 runs. Ishant Sharma was named Player of the Match for taking nine wickets in the test.
2. South Africa vs Zimbabwe, 2017, Gqeberha – 907 balls
The day-night test between South Africa and Zimbabwe in Gqeberha in 2017 lasted only 907 balls.
South Africa batted first and made 309/9d in 79 overs. In reply, Zimbabwe were bowled out for 68 and 121 (following on). South Africa won the test by an innings and 120 runs. Aiden Markram was named Player of the Match for his 125-run knock
1. India vs England, 2021, Ahmedabad – 842 balls
The shortest day-night test to take place was between India and England in Ahmedabad in 2021. This match ended in only 842 balls, which is 140.2 overs.
England batted first and were bowled out for just 112 runs in 48.4 overs. While batting, India looked good at one stage, but later lost their last seven wickets for just 40 runs, eventually managing to post 145 runs. In reply, England were bowled out for 81 runs in 30.4 overs. India got a target of 49 runs, which they chased in 7.4 overs and won the game.