What is the difference between red soil vs black soil pitch in cricket explained and materials composition

What is the difference between red soil vs black soil pitch in cricket explained and materials composition

In the midst of the ongoing IND vs BAN Test series, cricket enthusiasts are anxiously looking for the difference vs Black and Red Soil pitch as the term have been widely used in media reports.

Here in this article we have provide you all the information about the Red and Black Soil, which was used at the M.A. Chidambaram and Green Park Stadium.

What is the difference between Red Soil vs Black Soil pitch in cricket

Usually cricket pitches are composed of soil, sand, and some other materials such as slit. The mixture of these elements primarily determine how a cricket pitch will behave at the start of a match and as the match progresses.

The behavior of a pitch, means whether it will be an advantage for batters or bowlers, depends on the condition of this aforementioned mix.

As per various reports, a typical cricket pitch is usually made up of about 50% clay, 5% salt, 20% slit, and 20% fine sand. Though the percentage of these elements depends on the curator and the needs of the match or format.

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Red Soil Pitches

Red soil pitches have a lower clay content, which means they absorb less water and have reduced elasticity. As a result, red soil pitches dry out faster and tend to crumble and break up earlier in the game.

By the third day of a Test match, a red soil pitch often begins to disintegrate, with the soil coming off as dust when bowlers hit the surface. This aids turn and favors spinners. Initially, batters will enjoy a flat track, but as cracks form, spinners will take charge.

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Black Soil Pitches

In contrast to the red soil, black soil pitches have a higher clay content, which allows them to retain more water and stay intact longer. This elasticity leads to uneven bounce, making it essential for batters to take time to adapt, especially on used surfaces.

Once settled, batters can accumulate big runs. Black soil pitches typically experience less wear and tear and tend to remain consistent throughout the match. However, the ball will grip and turn early, often from the first few overs.

Let us remind you, the second test between IND vs BAN is scheduled to be held on September 27, 2024 at Green Park Stadium, Kanpur, where the black soil pitch will be use, a condition might be a advantage for Bangladesh.

During the first Test match between India and Bangladesh, which was held in Chennai, the pitchโ€™s soil was red, which gave advantage to team India as Bangladesh team is used to playing on slower, black soil pitches at home.

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