What Is the Standard Weight of a Cricket Ball? All You Need to Know

Whether it’s a fiery Test match spell or a thrilling T20 finish, one thing remains constant - the cricket ball. While it may seem like a simple piece of equipment, the cricket ball’s weight and size are finely regulated to ensure consistency and fairness across the sport. Let’s take a closer look at what makes a cricket ball standard, from its weight to how it’s made.

Standard Weight: How Much Should a Cricket Ball Weigh?

The weight of a cricket ball is not random - it’s strictly governed by the Laws of Cricket, maintained by the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC). For professional men’s cricket, the official weight ranges between 155.9 grams (5.5 ounces) and 163 grams (5.75 ounces).

In women’s cricket, the ball is slightly lighter, typically ranging from 140 grams to 151 grams, providing a better balance for the pace and power of the women’s game.

For junior cricket, the balls are even lighter to suit young players under the age of 13. These balls generally weigh between 133 grams and 144 grams, ensuring safety and ease of play.

Size Matters: Circumference of a Cricket Ball

Just like weight, the circumference of a cricket ball is also standardised.

• For men’s cricket, the ball’s circumference falls between 22.4 cm (8.81 inches) and 22.9 cm (9 inches).
• In women’s cricket, it ranges from 21.0 cm (8.25 inches) to 22.5 cm (8.88 inches).
• Junior cricket balls are sized between 20.5 cm (8.07 inches) and 22.0 cm (8.66 inches).

These measurements ensure uniform performance characteristics across different formats and age groups.

What’s Inside a Cricket Ball?

At its core, a cricket ball is crafted for durability and performance. It begins with a cork core, tightly wrapped in string, and then enclosed in high-quality leather. The leather covering is stitched together, typically using a seamless method, giving the ball its familiar polished appearance and allowing it to last through overs of intense gameplay.

Why Does the Weight of the Ball Matter?

The ball’s weight isn’t just a technicality - it has a direct impact on the game. Heavier balls tend to travel faster, bounce higher, and behave differently off the pitch, influencing how bowlers deliver and how batters respond. A uniform weight across matches ensures that the playing conditions are fair, predictable, and in line with international standards.

From club-level cricket to the grand stages of international tournaments, maintaining a consistent standard for the cricket ball is essential. Whether it's red for Test matches or white for ODIs and T20s, every ball is carefully crafted to meet the same weight and size guidelines - all to keep the game balanced, exciting, and fair.