The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is thinking about removing the ban on using saliva to shine the ball in IPL 2025. This rule was originally put in place during the COVID-19 pandemic and later made permanent by the International Cricket Council (ICC). The decision could have a big impact on the game, especially for bowlers.
BCCI Discusses Proposal with Captains
The BCCI has been discussing the saliva ban internally and plans to present the proposal to all IPL team captains in a meeting in Mumbai. If the captains agree, the ban may be lifted for IPL 2025, which starts on March 22.
A top BCCI official stated, “Using saliva on the ball was part of the game until COVID hit. Now that the threat is gone, we feel there is no harm in allowing it in IPL again.” The official also pointed out that while saliva is more useful in red-ball cricket, it could still benefit bowlers in white-ball cricket.
Background: The Saliva Ban in Cricket
The use of saliva to shine the ball was a common practice in cricket for many years. It helps bowlers maintain swing and movement, making the game more balanced between batters and bowlers. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the ICC banned saliva use as a health precaution. In 2022, the ban became permanent.
The IPL also followed the ICC’s decision and included the ban in its playing conditions. However, since the IPL operates independently, the BCCI has the power to change the rule within the league. If the IPL lifts the ban, it might encourage the ICC to reconsider its stance globally.
Players’ Opinions on the Ban
Several cricketers have expressed their views on lifting the saliva ban. Indian pacer Mohammed Shami has been vocal about bringing back saliva use. He believes that allowing bowlers to shine the ball with saliva would help restore balance in a game that currently favors batters. Other bowlers, such as Vernon Philander and Tim Southee, have supported Shami’s view, arguing that reverse swing is an essential part of the game.
Shami said, “We keep asking for saliva use to be allowed again so we can bring back reverse swing and make the game more exciting.”
Current Rules and Potential Changes
Under the existing IPL rules, players caught using saliva face warnings and fines:
- First offense: The fielding captain receives a warning.
- Second offense: A second and final warning is given.
- Third offense: The player must pay a fine of 10 lakh rupees or 25% of their match fee.
If the proposal is accepted, these rules will be removed, allowing bowlers to use saliva freely again.
DRS for Wides and High Deliveries
In another major update, the IPL plans to extend the Decision Review System (DRS) to include height-based and off-side wide balls. This means teams can challenge an umpire’s wide ball call using Hawk-Eye technology. If a batter believes a wide was incorrectly given for a high delivery or one outside the off-stump, they can request a review.
The BCCI’s move to reconsider the saliva ban could significantly impact IPL 2025 and cricket worldwide. While the rule was initially introduced for health reasons, many players and experts believe it should be lifted to help bowlers. If the IPL makes this change, it may push the ICC to review its global ban as well. Additionally, the introduction of DRS for wides could improve the accuracy of umpiring decisions. As the IPL 2025 season approaches, fans and players are eager to see what decisions will be made.
Visit Home