Indian Bowler Mohammed Shami Calls for Reconsideration of Saliva Ban to Revive Reverse Swing in Cricket
After leading the Indian cricket team to a thrilling victory over Australia in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semifinal, fast bowler Mohammed Shami has raised concerns about the decline of reverse swing in the game since the ban on using saliva to shine the ball. Shami believes that the International Cricket Council (ICC) should reconsider the rule to bring back the technique that has been a crucial weapon for fast bowlers.
Mohammed Shami’s Plea to ICC
Historically, fast bowlers have used saliva to maintain the shine on one side of the ball, enabling them to generate movement in the air. However, the ICC’s decision to ban the use of saliva in 2022, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, has led to a decrease in the occurrence of reverse swing, especially in ODIs where two new balls are used from both ends.
Expressing his frustration, Shami stated to News18 after the semifinal match, “We are trying to reverse, but without the use of saliva, it’s becoming challenging. We are urging for the allowance of saliva, as it adds an interesting dimension to the game, especially with reverse swing.”
Challenges Faced by Mohammed Shami
Leading India’s pace attack solo in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has presented a significant challenge for Shami, especially after a long injury break. With Jasprit Bumrah sidelined due to a back issue, Shami has taken on the responsibility of spearheading the bowling alongside Hardik Pandya. Despite the absence of another frontline pacer, India has opted to stick with four spinners in the tournament.
Shami, who has already claimed eight wickets in the tournament, including a pivotal three-wicket haul in the semifinal, acknowledged the increased workload in Bumrah’s absence. He shared, “Being the main pacer comes with its load, especially when the other bowler is an all-rounder. But I have adapted to the role and am focused on contributing more to the team.”
Adapting to New Responsibilities
Reflecting on his strategy, Shami emphasized the importance of not overthinking in the early stages of white-ball cricket. He highlighted the need for skill adjustments in the latter stages of the game when conditions change, demonstrating his understanding of the nuances of fast bowling in limited-overs cricket.
As India prepares to face off against a formidable opponent in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final, Shami’s call for the reintroduction of saliva to aid in the revival of reverse swing has sparked a debate among cricket enthusiasts and experts. Whether the ICC will heed Shami’s plea remains to be seen, but the bowler’s performance on the field continues to impress and inspire his team and fans alike.
Impact of Saliva Ban on Fast Bowlers
The ban on using saliva to shine the ball has had a profound impact on the skill set of fast bowlers worldwide. Without the ability to create and maintain swing through the traditional method of shining one side of the ball, bowlers have had to rely more on other techniques to outsmart batsmen. This shift has led to a decrease in the frequency of reverse swing, which is a crucial weapon in a fast bowler’s arsenal, especially in the latter stages of limited-overs matches.
Former cricketers and experts have also voiced their concerns about the diminishing art of reverse swing in modern cricket. They argue that the ban on saliva has tilted the balance in favor of batsmen, making it harder for bowlers to find ways to trouble them with deceptive movement through the air. The lack of reverse swing has not only affected the dynamics of the game but has also altered the strategies employed by bowlers to maintain their effectiveness on the field.
Technological Innovations and Reverse Swing
With advancements in technology, especially the use of high-quality cameras and ball-tracking systems, bowlers are under increased scrutiny to ensure they do not tamper with the ball to generate swing artificially. The ban on saliva has forced bowlers to explore alternative methods to maintain the shine on the ball, such as using sweat or natural wear and tear, which may not be as effective in inducing reverse swing.
In the absence of saliva, some bowlers have turned to using external substances like lip balm or sweets to shine the ball, raising ethical concerns and prompting the need for stricter regulations to ensure fair play. The debate surrounding the ban on saliva and its impact on reverse swing continues to evolve as players, administrators, and fans grapple with finding a balance between maintaining the integrity of the game and preserving its traditional skills.
The Evolution of Bowling Tactics
As fast bowlers adapt to the new regulations and restrictions imposed by the ICC, they are forced to innovate and evolve their bowling tactics to remain competitive in the ever-changing landscape of cricket. Bowlers have had to work on developing new skills, such as varying their pace, using the crease effectively, and mastering cutters and slower balls to deceive batsmen in the absence of traditional swing techniques.
Moreover, the emphasis on fitness and athleticism has become more critical for fast bowlers, as they are required to bowl long spells and maintain their effectiveness throughout a match. The evolution of bowling tactics in response to the ban on saliva has highlighted the resilience and adaptability of bowlers like Mohammed Shami, who continue to excel despite the challenges posed by the changing regulations.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Reverse Swing
As cricketing authorities and players navigate the complexities of modern cricket, the future of reverse swing remains uncertain. While some argue for the reintroduction of saliva to revive this art form, others believe that bowlers must continue to innovate and find new ways to generate movement on the ball within the confines of the existing rules.
Ultimately, the debate surrounding the ban on saliva and its impact on reverse swing underscores the ongoing evolution of the game and the constant need for players to adapt and refine their skills to stay ahead in the competitive world of international cricket. Whether the ICC will revisit its decision on the use of saliva remains to be seen, but one thing is clear – the art of fast bowling continues to evolve, driven by the resilience and determination of bowlers like Mohammed Shami to overcome challenges and succeed on the global stage.
