Will someone switch on the lights, please?

While the Indian board in principle agrees that the Packer formula will work at the domestic level, secretary S K Nair points out a few problems. Speaking to The Indian Express, Nair says, ‘‘If such a proposal comes from the Technical Committee, we will definitely look into the matter. But lot of things have to be taken into account before doing that — like availability of the white balls and also the rules that will be applied.’’

While BCCI asks for time, the players — present and former — can’t wait to see some colour in domestic cricket.

‘‘It will definitely be beneficial for everybody as they will get a feel of things to come,’’ said India seamer Ajit Agarkar, one of the few who made the transition comfortably enough. Baroda skipper and former international Jacob Martin is also excited: ‘‘It is an exciting proposition and a good thing for domestic cricket and cricketers.’’

And national selection committee chairman Kiran More said, ‘‘It is an interesting proposition. That will not only help the players but also attract spectators to the grounds,’’ adding that the BCCI can think about introducing it in the Deodhar Trophy matches. ‘‘All teams have sponsors these days, so getting coloured clothing too wouldn’t be a problem.’’

Gujarat seamer Siddharth Trivedi — who donned the pyjamas during a tri-series against Pakistan A and Sri Lanka A at the Eden Gardens last year — says, ‘‘It took me some time to come to terms with the difference’’.

The biggest difference will be in the Kookaburra balls, which are traditionally used in ODIs. ‘‘The seam in the white ball is not upright and is also lighter compared to the balls we use here (red SGs). It swings a bit initially, it’s a nightmare for bowlers once it loses its shine. The red ball does something through the 50 overs and bowlers can’t complain,’’ says Agarkar.

The changes are sure to make the fans — obsessed with the international game — finally fill the stands for domestic games. It’s just the small matter of the BCCI now accepting the option, doing the needful, and implementing the changes. Till then cricketers will play under the floodlights waiting for them to be switched on.