The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially lifted the saliva ban ahead of IPL 2025, making it the first major cricketing tournament to reintroduce the practice since the COVID-19 pandemic. This decision could significantly impact the balance between bat and ball in T20 cricket, giving pacers a much-needed advantage.
BCCI Ends Saliva Ban: What It Means for IPL 2025
Historic Decision by BCCI
The BCCI made the announcement following a meeting with the 10 IPL team captains ahead of the tournament’s commencement. The discussion revolved around various regulations, including media commitments and match protocols.
Since the onset of the pandemic, the ICC (International Cricket Council) had enforced a global ban on the use of saliva on the ball to curb virus transmission. The rule significantly impacted fast bowlers, restricting their ability to generate reverse swing. With the pandemic no longer a global concern, there have been growing calls to lift the ban, particularly from players and experts.
Impact on Fast Bowlers & Reverse Swing
Lifting the saliva ban could be a game-changer, especially for pace bowlers, as it allows:
- Enhanced swing movement – Saliva helps maintain the ball’s shine, aiding traditional and reverse swing.
- Better control in death overs – Reverse swing becomes a crucial weapon in T20 cricket, especially in the final overs.
- A balanced contest – IPL has been known for its batting-friendly nature, and this rule change might bring equilibrium to the game.
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Mohammed Shami’s Role in the Change
Star Indian pacer Mohammed Shami has been vocal about the need to bring back saliva application. After a Champions Trophy game in Dubai, Shami emphasized:
His continuous advocacy played a key role in influencing the decision, reflecting the bowlers’ long-standing demand.
How Will This Affect IPL 2025?
- Pace bowlers back in action – Expect lethal swing bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Trent Boult to exploit this rule.
- Possible shift in strategy – Teams may consider adjusting their bowling attack, focusing more on seamers rather than relying heavily on spinners.
- Higher competition between bat and ball – While batters have dominated IPL over the years, this move could balance the contest, making matches more thrilling.
Will Other Tournaments Follow Suit?
With the IPL becoming the first major league to lift the ban, the question arises: Will the ICC reconsider its stance for international matches? Cricketing nations and players worldwide might push for a similar change in Test and ODI formats.
Final Thoughts: A Positive Step for Cricket?
The BCCI’s decision to lift the saliva ban ahead of IPL 2025 marks a significant shift in modern-day cricket. While health concerns prompted the restriction, the game’s dynamics have evolved, and players now advocate for a level playing field.
What Do You Think?
Will this change make IPL 2025 more exciting? Can bowlers finally get an edge over the batters? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Don’t forget to follow us for more IPL 2025 updates, match analysis, and expert insights.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially lifted the saliva ban ahead of IPL 2025, making it the first major cricketing tournament to reintroduce the practice since the COVID-19 pandemic. This decision could significantly impact the balance between bat and ball in T20 cricket, giving pacers a much-needed advantage.
BCCI Ends Saliva Ban: What It Means for IPL 2025
Historic Decision by BCCI
The BCCI made the announcement following a meeting with the 10 IPL team captains ahead of the tournament’s commencement. The discussion revolved around various regulations, including media commitments and match protocols.
Since the onset of the pandemic, the ICC (International Cricket Council) had enforced a global ban on the use of saliva on the ball to curb virus transmission. The rule significantly impacted fast bowlers, restricting their ability to generate reverse swing. With the pandemic no longer a global concern, there have been growing calls to lift the ban, particularly from players and experts.
Impact on Fast Bowlers & Reverse Swing
Lifting the saliva ban could be a game-changer, especially for pace bowlers, as it allows:
- Enhanced swing movement – Saliva helps maintain the ball’s shine, aiding traditional and reverse swing.
- Better control in death overs – Reverse swing becomes a crucial weapon in T20 cricket, especially in the final overs.
- A balanced contest – IPL has been known for its batting-friendly nature, and this rule change might bring equilibrium to the game.
Mohammed Shami’s Role in the Change
Star Indian pacer Mohammed Shami has been vocal about the need to bring back saliva application. After a Champions Trophy game in Dubai, Shami emphasized:
His continuous advocacy played a key role in influencing the decision, reflecting the bowlers’ long-standing demand.
How Will This Affect IPL 2025?
- Pace bowlers back in action – Expect lethal swing bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Trent Boult to exploit this rule.
- Possible shift in strategy – Teams may consider adjusting their bowling attack, focusing more on seamers rather than relying heavily on spinners.
- Higher competition between bat and ball – While batters have dominated IPL over the years, this move could balance the contest, making matches more thrilling.
Will Other Tournaments Follow Suit?
With the IPL becoming the first major league to lift the ban, the question arises: Will the ICC reconsider its stance for international matches? Cricketing nations and players worldwide might push for a similar change in Test and ODI formats.
Final Thoughts: A Positive Step for Cricket?
The BCCI’s decision to lift the saliva ban ahead of IPL 2025 marks a significant shift in modern-day cricket. While health concerns prompted the restriction, the game’s dynamics have evolved, and players now advocate for a level playing field.
What Do You Think?
Will this change make IPL 2025 more exciting? Can bowlers finally get an edge over the batters? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Don’t forget to follow us for more IPL 2025 updates, match analysis, and expert insights.
