The International Cricket Council (ICC) banned the use of saliva on the ball in 2020 due to COVID-19 concerns. Later, in October 2022, the ban was made permanent. This decision has impacted fast bowlers, making it harder to achieve reverse swing. Mohammed Shami, the Indian pacer, and former New Zealand cricketer Tim Southee have voiced their support for reconsidering the rule.
- The saliva ban was initially introduced for health reasons.
- Shami and Southee believe the ban has made bowling tougher.
- Bowlers struggle to achieve reverse swing without saliva.
- ICC still allows sweat for ball shining.
- The rule change has favored batters, leading to higher scores.
Why Bowlers Want Saliva Back
Fast bowlers use saliva to shine one side of the ball, helping with reverse swing, which is crucial in the final overs. Mohammed Shami highlighted this issue after India’s victory over Australia in the Champions Trophy semi-final. He believes the permanent ban has made it difficult for bowlers to extract movement, especially in flat conditions.
Tim Southee, who retired from international cricket in December 2024, also supports lifting the ban. Speaking to ESPNcricinfo, he pointed out that the rule was introduced due to COVID-19 but is no longer necessary. He noted that teams frequently score over 300 runs in ODIs, making it tough for bowlers.
“That was a rule brought around COVID. We see the game going the way it’s going, with sides scoring 362 and over 300 runs regularly,” said Southee.
Is It Time for ICC to Reconsider?
With more bowlers calling for the reinstatement of saliva use, the ICC may need to review its decision. Southee emphasized that bowlers need some advantage, and reversing the ban could restore balance.
“I think there needs to be something in the bowlers’ favor. Whether that’s a little bit of saliva, I don’t see why they couldn’t afford to get that back in,” he added.
- Higher Scores: Teams frequently score above 300 runs in ODIs.
- Struggle for Bowlers: Reverse swing is harder to achieve.
- Favors Batters: The game has shifted towards high-scoring matches.
- Southee and Shami’s Call: They want ICC to review the ban.
The permanent saliva ban has changed the dynamics of the game, making it more challenging for fast bowlers. With legends like Shami and Southee advocating for its return, the ICC may need to reconsider its stance. Bringing back saliva could restore balance between bat and ball and make cricket more competitive.
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