The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is contemplating a significant rule change for the upcoming IPL 2025 season by considering the lifting of the ban on using saliva to shine the cricket ball.
This proposal is set to be discussed during a meeting with the captains of all IPL teams on March 20, just days before the tournament kicks off on March 22.
Background on the Saliva Ban
The ban on using saliva was implemented by the International Cricket Council (ICC) as a precautionary measure during the COVID-19 pandemic, aimed at minimizing health risks associated with the transmission of the virus.
In 2022, this ban was made permanent, leading to its inclusion in the playing conditions of various leagues, including the IPL. Players were allowed to use sweat instead to maintain the ball’s shine.
BCCI’s Rationale for Lifting the Ban
BCCI officials have expressed that with the pandemic threat significantly diminished, it may be time to revisit this rule.
A senior BCCI official stated, “Using saliva on the ball was part of the essence of the game until COVID hit. 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 acknowledged that while saliva’s impact is more pronounced in red-ball cricket, it could still benefit bowlers in white-ball formats.
The BCCI believes that allowing saliva could help restore some balance between bat and ball, particularly in a game that has increasingly favored batsmen.
If approved, this change could also prompt a reevaluation of the ICC’s stance on saliva use in other formats.
Impact on Global Cricket
Should the BCCI lift this ban, it could have far-reaching implications beyond just IPL 2025.
Prominent cricketers like Mohammed Shami and Vernon Philander have previously advocated for allowing saliva to aid bowlers in achieving reverse swing and enhancing competitive balance.
If successful in India, it may encourage other cricketing nations and governing bodies to reconsider their regulations regarding saliva use.
Additional Rule Changes Under Discussion
Alongside the saliva ban discussion, the BCCI is also set to introduce an extension of the Decision Review System (DRS) to include reviews for height wides and wides outside off-stump.
This adjustment aims to improve decision-making accuracy regarding wide balls and enhance fairness in gameplay.
Upcoming Captains’ Meeting
The captains’ meeting will not only address these rule changes but also cover various other regulations related to IPL 2025, including bouncers, Super Overs, and impact players.
The BCCI has indicated that it will respect whatever decision is reached by the captains regarding the saliva ban.
