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In a significant move ahead of IPL 2025, bowlers will once again be allowed to use saliva to shine the cricket ball, reversing the ban imposed during the Covid-19 pandemic. The decision, reportedly backed by most IPL franchise captains in a recent meeting, marks a return to traditional bowling techniques that were restricted for health reasons.
The Return of Saliva in Cricket
Introduced as a temporary measure in May 2020, the saliva ban was aimed at reducing potential Covid transmission. While sweat was still permitted for polishing the ball, the International Cricket Council (ICC) made the ban permanent in September 2022. However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has now lifted the restriction for the IPL, bringing back an age-old practice that bowlers have relied on for decades.
Why Saliva Matters in Cricket
Saliva plays a crucial role in maintaining the ball’s shine, enabling fast bowlers to generate swing. It is particularly useful in red-ball cricket, where the ball is used for a longer duration, allowing reverse swing—a technique that can make the game more competitive, especially in dry conditions.
Mohammed Siraj, who will play for Gujarat Titans in IPL 2025, welcomed the decision. “When the ball isn’t swinging, saliva helps maintain the shine and aids reverse swing,” he said. His fellow pacer, Mohammed Shami, had previously called for the ICC to reconsider the ban, emphasizing how reverse swing adds excitement to the game.
Mixed Reactions from Cricketing Circles
While many fast bowlers, including former internationals like Vernon Philander and Tim Southee, support the return of saliva use, others remain cautious. Indian spinner R Ashwin questioned the research behind the ban, stating, “If saliva didn’t make much of a difference, then why ban it in the first place?”
However, former cricketer Venkatesh Prasad urged caution, highlighting the hygiene concerns that originally led to the ban. “With new viruses emerging, we must be careful before fully reinstating the use of saliva in cricket,” he remarked.
Impact on IPL 2025 and Beyond
The decision is expected to restore some balance between bat and ball, especially in the T20 format, where high-scoring matches have become the norm. While bowlers will benefit, experts believe that conditions and skill levels will still play a crucial role in swing bowling. With the 18th edition of IPL set to kick off with Kolkata Knight Riders facing Royal Challengers Bangalore at Eden Gardens, all eyes will be on whether this rule change truly impacts the game. The bigger question remains—will the ICC follow suit and reconsider the saliva ban for international red-ball cricket?
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