Image Credit: BCCI
Mohammed Shami Urges ICC to Lift Saliva Ban for Reverse Swing
Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami has urged the International Cricket Council (ICC) to reconsider the ban on using saliva to shine the cricket ball. He emphasized that the restriction, initially introduced as a COVID-19 precaution, has made it increasingly difficult for pacers to achieve reverse swing, a crucial skill in the game.
Impact of Saliva Ban on Reverse Swing
The saliva ban has significantly affected fast bowlers, limiting their ability to maintain the ball’s condition for reverse swing. Shami addressed the issue, stating, “We are trying to reverse, but you are not getting the use of saliva into the game.” He further explained the frustration among pacers, adding, “We are constantly appealing to allow the use of saliva, and it will be interesting with the reverse swing.”
Reverse swing plays a vital role, especially in subcontinental conditions where pitches tend to deteriorate over time. The ability to generate movement with the old ball is often the key to breaking partnerships and turning matches in a team’s favor.
Challenges of Adapting Without Saliva
Despite the ban, Shami and other fast bowlers have had to adapt, using sweat to shine the ball instead. However, the difference in properties between sweat and saliva has made it difficult to achieve the same effect. Maintaining one side of the ball shiny while allowing the other to wear naturally is crucial for reverse swing, but the absence of saliva has limited bowlers’ ability to control this process effectively.
Revisiting the Ban for Fair Play
Shami’s appeal highlights a broader concern in the cricketing world, where pacers have been struggling to find effective alternatives. The use of saliva has long been a traditional method in cricket, and many players believe its ban has tilted the balance in favor of batters.
As discussions continue, the ICC faces the challenge of addressing these concerns while maintaining health protocols. With growing calls from players, there remains a possibility that the governing body may review the ban to ensure a fair contest between bat and ball in the future.
