Queensland company reveals process behind new pink cricket balls

Queensland’s Packer Leather has revealed the difficult process involved in crafting the pink leather used to make controversial new cricket balls.

The bright balls have been specially designed for day-night Test cricket, with high visibility in light and dark in mind.

They will make their debut in the first day-night Test match at the Adelaide Oval next Friday.

The family-run Packer Leather company have spent years developing the pink leather.

“We’ve worked hard at it and we want to do things that are good and that draw attention to our abilities in the industry,” Graham Packer said.

“We’re very proud, it’s been a long journey and this industry isn’t easy, but we’re hoping it’s going to be successful,” Lindsay Packer said.

The Packers have sent their first batches of leather to the Kookaburra factory, where the balls have been stitched and are ready to roll.

“The leather itself is exactly what we need to overcome the issues of a day-night Test match,” Kookaburra spokesman Ross Thompson said.

Commentator Ian Healy said the balls would live up to their hype.

“Broadcasting is convinced it’s OK – cameras can pick it up,” he said.

Feedback from players was also positive, Healy said.