Cricket Ball Weight Chart: Men’s, Women’s & Junior Formats

Cricket may look simple from the outside, but every element of the game — from the pitch length to the ball weight — follows strict regulations that shape how the sport is played. Among these, cricket ball weight is one of the most important factors affecting swing, bounce, speed, and even player safety.

The weight of the cricket ball is not the same for every category. The International Cricket Council (ICC) sets different weight standards for men’s, women’s, and junior formats to ensure fair play and balanced performance.

This guide breaks down the complete cricket ball weight chart, explains why these differences exist, and helps you understand how weight impacts gameplay across all levels.

Official ICC Cricket Ball Weight Standards (Quick Overview)

The ICC defines precise rules for the cricket ball’s weight and circumference. These regulations ensure uniformity in international cricket and serve as the global benchmark for domestic competitions.

Here’s a quick glance:

• Men’s cricket ball: Heaviest and largest

• Women’s cricket ball: Slightly lighter and smaller

• Junior/youth cricket ball: Lightest for safe handling and learning

Different balls — red, white, and pink — may look identical but can also have slight variations in weight due to coatings and materials.

Cricket Ball Weight Chart: Men’s, Women’s & Junior Formats

1. Men’s Cricket Ball Weight

• Weight: 155.9 to 163 grams

• Ounces: 5.5 to 5.75 oz

• Circumference: 22.4 to 22.9 cm

• Formats Used: Test cricket (red/pink), ODI & T20 (white)

This is the official ball used in global professional cricket. It is designed for higher speed, longer durability, and enhanced seam movement.

2. Women’s Cricket Ball Weight

• Weight: 140 to 151 grams

• Ounces: 4.9 to 5.3 oz

• Circumference: 21 to 22.5 cm

Women’s cricket balls are slightly lighter, making them easy to grip, bowl, and hit at the highest levels of the women’s game. The reduced weight also lowers injury risk.

3. Junior / Youth Cricket Ball Weight

• Weight: 133 to 144 grams

• Ounces: 4.7 to 5.1 oz

• Circumference: 20.5 to 22 cm

Junior balls are designed to help young players learn the basics safely. The lighter weight allows kids to control their bowling and batting techniques without strain.

Complete Cricket Ball Weight Chart (Table)

Why Cricket Ball Weight Differs Across Formats

Cricket ball weights are not random. Here’s why the ICC sets different standards:

1. Physical Strength Variations

Men typically generate more bowling speed and batting power, so heavier balls suit their gameplay. Women and juniors need slightly lighter balls to play safely and effectively.

2. Safety Regulations

Using heavy balls for junior players increases injury risks. Lighter balls protect young cricketers while they develop skills.

3. Match Format Requirements

A heavier ball maintains its shine, seam, and hardness longer — essential for international men’s formats where bowlers expect movement over long spells.

4. Performance Behavior

Ball weight affects:

• Swing

• Seam movement

• Bounce

• Carry to wicketkeeper

• Batting timing

Different formats demand different performance characteristics.

Types of Cricket Balls & Their Weight Differences

Although the ICC regulates weight ranges, red, white, and pink balls behave differently due to materials and coatings.

1. Red Cricket Ball

• Used in Test matches

• Traditionally hand-stitched

• Natural leather with dark red dye

• Slight coating differences may cause minor weight variations

Red balls tend to swing more conventionally, especially early in the innings.

2. White Cricket Ball

• Used in ODIs and T20s

• Extra lacquer to maintain shine under floodlights

• Slightly different feel due to heavier coating

The lacquer may add a marginal increase in weight, though still within ICC limits.

3. Pink Cricket Ball

• Used in Day-Night Test matches

• Extra layers of lacquer for visibility

• Slightly harder and can feel heavier during play

The added coating helps the ball stay bright under lights.

Factors That Affect a Ball’s Weight Over Time

Even though balls start within ICC-approved ranges, several factors can alter weight during a match:

1. Wear & Tear

Repeated impact with the pitch, bat, and outfield gradually softens and lightens the ball.

2. Moisture Absorption

Damp outfields cause the ball to absorb water, making it heavier and reducing swing.

3. Polishing/Shining

Players shine one side to enhance swing. Sweat and moisture may add minimal weight.

4. Temperature & Humidity

Leather reacts to climate. Dry heat makes it lighter; humidity adds marginal weight.

How Ball Weight Impacts Performance on the Field

1. Impact on Bowlers

• Pace bowlers: Heavier balls generate more bounce and seam movement.

• Swing bowlers: The polish and weight influence conventional and reverse swing.

• Spinners: Lighter balls can offer more grip and flight.

2. Impact on Batters

• Heavier balls come quicker off the pitch.

• Timing becomes crucial with high-speed deliveries.

• Lighter balls offer easier stroke play and reduce injury risk.

3. Impact on Fielders

• Catching a heavier ball requires strong hands.

• Throwing distance and power depend on weight.

• Junior cricketers benefit from lighter balls for safe learning.

Training Balls vs Official Match Balls

Not all cricket balls used in training match the official ICC weight. Here’s the breakdown:

1. Soft Training Balls

• Rubber, plastic, or foam

• Lightweight and safe

• Used for kids and beginners

2. Tennis Balls

• Often used in street cricket

• Much lighter

• Great for practicing timing

3. Heavier or Lighter Practice Balls

• Used for advanced training

• Some balls are intentionally heavier to build strength

• Others are lighter to improve wrist work

4. Leather Training Balls

• Slightly cheaper variants

• May not strictly follow ICC weight standards

Choosing the Right Ball for Age & Skill Level

Beginners (Under 10 Years)

• Soft or lightweight rubber balls

• Focus on grip, technique, and safe play

Junior Cricketers (Under 13/15)

• Junior leather balls (133–144 g)

• Balanced for learning seam, swing, and spin

Women’s Cricket

• ICC-approved women’s ball

• Perfect size for control and power

Men’s Cricket

• Standard men’s ball

• Suitable for competitive matches and advanced training

Coaches & Parents Tip

Always match the ball weight with the player's age, strength, and skill to prevent injuries and encourage proper development.

Popular Cricket Ball Brands & Weight Accuracy

Different manufacturers produce balls under ICC standards, but brand construction can create slight differences in feel.

1. Kookaburra

• Used in Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Sri Lanka

• Machine-stitched

• Consistent weight distribution

2. Dukes

• Used in England and West Indies

• Hand-stitched

• Known for durability and more pronounced seam

3. SG (Sanspareils Greenlands)

• Used in India

• Hand-stitched

• Slightly harder feel and excellent seam maintenance

4. Gray-Nicolls

• Popular for domestic cricket and training

• Good weight precision

Care & Maintenance Tips to Preserve Ball Weight

Proper maintenance keeps the ball within acceptable weight range and prolongs lifespan.

1. Store in a cool, dry place

Leather absorbs moisture quickly.

2. Avoid exposing to rain or dew

Wet surfaces add weight and damage the leather.

3. Shine the ball properly

Use sweat carefully; avoid excessive moisture.

4. Clean gently after matches

Wipe the ball with a dry cloth to remove dirt buildup.

FAQs

1. What is the official weight of a men’s cricket ball?

The official ICC weight for a men’s ball is 155.9 to 163 grams.

2. Why does a women’s cricket ball weigh less?

To match physical strength and ensure better control and safety.

3. What is the best ball weight for junior cricket?

The ideal weight is 133 to 144 grams, depending on age and skill.

4. Do pink cricket balls weigh more?

Not officially, but extra lacquer can make them feel slightly heavier.

5. Does ball weight affect swing?

Yes. Weight, polish, seam, and surface all influence how the ball swings.

Conclusion

Cricket ball weight plays a crucial role in the dynamics of the game. Whether you're watching international Test cricket or training young players at a local academy, using the right ball weight ensures performance, consistency, and safety.

By understanding the differences between men’s, women’s, and junior cricket ball weights, players and coaches can choose the correct ball for their specific needs. The ICC’s weight standards maintain fairness across all formats, making cricket a balanced game for everyone. 

Read More: Understanding Cricket Pitch Length: From Stumps to Crease