What is dew?
Dew forms when moist air cools in the evening and water droplets settle on the grass. In cricket, this happens most during night matches, especially in the Indian winter and in coastal cities with high humidity.
How dew affects the game
When the outfield is wet, the ball picks up moisture every time it travels along the ground. A wet ball is harder to grip. Spinners struggle to impart revolutions on the ball, fast bowlers find it harder to land yorkers, and fielders find catching and throwing more difficult. At the same time, the ball skids on to the bat, which makes batting easier.
Dew and the toss
Because the second innings is usually played in heavier dew, many captains choose to field first after winning the toss in evening games. The team batting first has to account for this by aiming for a higher total than normal.
Venues where dew is common
Dew is often a major factor at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, Eden Gardens in Kolkata and Ekana Stadium in Lucknow. Its intensity depends on the time of year, humidity and temperature on the night.
Dew and fantasy cricket
When heavy dew is expected, consider giving more weight to batters from the chasing side and fewer spinners from the team bowling second. Read our captain selection guide for more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do captains choose to chase when dew is expected?
Dew makes the ball wet and slippery in the second innings, which makes bowling harder and batting easier for the chasing side.
Does dew affect spinners more than fast bowlers?
Yes. Spinners rely on grip to turn the ball, so a wet ball affects them more, although fast bowlers also find it harder to land yorkers.
How do teams deal with dew?
Teams use towels to dry the ball, practise with wet balls and may pick an extra seamer instead of a spinner.