NEW DELHI: In a move that could reshape global cricket, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is considering lifting the ban on using saliva to shine the ball during the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season, which begins on March 22.
According to PTI, the proposal has been thoroughly discussed within the BCCI and will be presented to the captains of all IPL teams during a meeting in Mumbai on Thursday.
Background: Saliva Ban Introduced During COVID-19
The International Cricket Council (ICC) initially banned the use of saliva as a safety measure during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although the practice was considered essential for maintaining the shine of the ball, the ICC permanently enforced the ban in 2022. While the IPL adhered to these guidelines post-pandemic, its playing conditions are not strictly bound by the ICC’s regulations.
BCCI’s Perspective on Lifting the Ban
“Using saliva was an integral part of the game before the pandemic. Since the COVID-19 threat is no longer a concern, we believe there is no harm in lifting the ban for the IPL,” a BCCI official told PTI.
The official added, “While saliva has a more significant impact in red-ball cricket, it can still assist bowlers to some extent in the shorter format. Since the IPL is a trend-setting tournament, lifting the ban could pave the way for similar changes globally. Let’s see what the captains decide tomorrow.”
Potential Impact on ICC’s Policy
If the saliva ban is revoked for the IPL, it could prompt the ICC to reconsider its stance on the matter. Several prominent cricketers, including Mohammed Shami, Vernon Philander, and Tim Southee, have previously advocated for the use of saliva to aid reverse swing and maintain a balance between bat and ball.
IPL to Introduce DRS for Wide Ball Decisions
In addition to the saliva ban discussion, the IPL is set to implement the Decision Review System (DRS) for height-based wides and wides outside the off-stump.
This initiative aims to enhance the accuracy of wide ball decisions using Hawk-Eye and ball-tracking technology. Teams will now be allowed to review instances where an on-field umpire signals a wide ball for height, enabling them to challenge the decision if they believe the ball was not high enough to warrant a wide call.
As the IPL continues to innovate and set new benchmarks, these changes could significantly influence the future of international cricket.
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