By Chirag - Mar 20, 2025 01:18 PM
In a groundbreaking move that could impact cricket globally, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is considering lifting the ban on applying saliva to the ball in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. This rule change, if implemented, could significantly alter the dynamics of the game and influence international cricket regulations.
The use of saliva to shine the ball has been an intrinsic part of cricket for generations. Bowlers have relied on it to generate swing, especially in red-ball cricket. However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic led to the International Cricket Council (ICC) temporarily banning saliva use as a precautionary measure to prevent virus transmission. In 2022, the ICC made this ban permanent, a decision that was subsequently adopted by the IPL.
Despite the restriction, many players and experts have advocated for the return of saliva application, arguing that it enhances the competitive balance between bat and ball. The proposal to revoke the ban will be discussed in a meeting with IPL team captains in Mumbai on Thursday. If approved, it could pave the way for the ICC to reconsider its stance on the issue.
A senior BCCI official, speaking to PTI, stated, "Using saliva on the ball was part of the essence of the game until COVID hits. Now that we don't have that threat anymore, we feel there is no harm in lifting the ban on saliva in the IPL."
The official also emphasized that while saliva application has a more pronounced effect in Test cricket, it could still benefit bowlers in the shorter formats. Given that the IPL is a trend-setting tournament, allowing saliva use in the league might encourage other competitions and international bodies to follow suit.
Prominent bowlers, including India's Mohammed Shami, have been vocal about the need for saliva application.Recently, Md. Shami reaffirmed his position at the ICC Champions Trophy in Dubai, saying, "We continue to argue that we should be permitted to utilise saliva in order to reinstate reverse swing and add interest to the game. Former international bowlers like Vernon Philander and Tim Southee have also backed this sentiment, stressing that bowlers should be given tools to counter the dominance of batters in modern cricket.
If the ban is lifted for IPL 2025, it could set a precedent for other leagues and international cricket. The ICC, which governs the global playing conditions, may be compelled to reconsider its permanent ban if the IPL successfully reintegrates saliva use without health concerns.
The return of saliva use could benefit pace bowlers who rely on swing, particularly in venues where conditions favor batters. The decision could also make matches more competitive and engaging for fans who enjoy seeing an even contest between bat and ball.
As per the existing IPL playing conditions, the use of saliva on the ball is strictly prohibited, with penalties in place for violations:
If the new proposal is approved, these regulations will be scrapped, allowing bowlers to use saliva without penalty.
In addition to revisiting the saliva ban, the IPL is set to introduce another significant rule change—extending the Decision Review System (DRS) to cover height-based wides and off-side wides.
Under the proposed changes:
The move aims to ensure greater accuracy in umpiring decisions, reducing contentious calls and providing teams with more control over game-changing moments.
While the BCCI’s proposed rule changes are yet to be officially implemented, they have already sparked discussions among players, analysts, and fans. The return of saliva application is expected to be welcomed by bowlers, particularly fast bowlers who rely on swing to trouble batters.
Former cricketers and analysts have expressed mixed opinions. Some believe the change is necessary to maintain a balance between batting and bowling, while others argue that alternatives like wax or artificial substances should be explored to shine the ball instead of saliva.
As for the expansion of DRS, it is largely seen as a positive development that will minimize umpiring errors. Given the high stakes in IPL matches, ensuring accuracy in wide calls can be crucial in tight contests.
The BCCI’s contemplation of lifting the saliva ban for IPL 2025 could mark a turning point in cricket’s evolution. If implemented, it might prompt the ICC to reassess its global ban, bringing reverse swing back into the game. Meanwhile, the proposed extension of DRS to wides will enhance fairness and precision in decision-making.
The final decision will depend on the feedback from IPL team captains during the upcoming meeting in Mumbai. Regardless of the outcome, these discussions highlight the IPL’s role as a pioneering force in shaping modern cricket rules. Fans and players alike await the official verdict, which could redefine bowling strategies and the competitive landscape of T20 cricket.
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