Saliva Ban Lifted for IPL Bowlers
In a significant shift for cricket, bowlers will now be permitted to use saliva to shine the ball in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL), reversing a ban that was in place since the Covid pandemic. This decision, supported by a majority of franchise captains, marks a return to traditional bowling techniques that enhance swing. The change will take effect with the start of IPL 2025 this Saturday.
Background of the Saliva Ban
The use of saliva on cricket balls was banned in May 2020 as a precautionary measure against the spread of Covid-19. While sweat was still allowed, the International Cricket Council (ICC) made the saliva ban permanent in September 2022. Saliva has long been a crucial tool for bowlers, helping to maintain the ball’s shine and enabling swing, a fundamental aspect of bowling for over a century. The ability to generate reverse swing, where the ball moves unexpectedly in the air, is particularly vital in dry conditions or when using older balls.
In red-ball cricket, where the ball is used for a longer duration, the application of saliva can significantly impact gameplay. However, it remains uncertain whether the ICC will follow suit and lift the saliva ban for red-ball formats following the IPL’s decision. The ICC, led by Jay Shah, former secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), has yet to announce any changes regarding this matter.
Reactions from Players and Experts
The announcement has been met with enthusiasm from players, including Indian fast bowler Mohammed Siraj, who plays for the Gujarat Titans. Siraj expressed his approval, stating that the ability to use saliva would enhance the chances of achieving reverse swing, which is crucial for effective bowling. He emphasized that traditional methods of maintaining the ball’s shine, such as rubbing it against clothing, are less effective than using saliva.
Other players, including Mohammed Shami, have also advocated for the lifting of the ban. Shami previously called for the ICC to reconsider the restriction, arguing that allowing saliva would make the game more competitive. Former international bowlers, including Vernon Philander and Tim Southee, have echoed similar sentiments, supporting the return of saliva as a legitimate tool for bowlers.
Implications for the IPL and Future of Cricket
The lifting of the saliva ban is expected to impact the dynamics of the IPL, which kicks off its 18th edition this Saturday with a match between the Kolkata Knight Riders and the Royal Challengers Bangalore. The tournament will feature 74 matches across 13 cities over two months. Sports writer Sharda Ugra noted that allowing saliva could help balance the contest between bat and ball, especially in a format often criticized for being too batter-friendly.
However, the extent of the impact remains uncertain. Ugra pointed out that while saliva plays a role in generating swing, other factors such as weather conditions and the skill of the bowler are equally important. Some former players, like Venkatesh Prasad, have raised concerns about the potential health implications of lifting the ban, emphasizing the need for caution in light of ongoing health risks.
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