Ravichandran Ashwin weighs in on Mohammed Shami’s call to lift saliva ban in cricket
Former India spin spearhead Ravichandran Ashwin has shared his thoughts on his ex-teammate Mohammed Shami’s recent comments regarding the ban on using saliva to polish the ball in cricket. Shami had called on the International Cricket Council (ICC) to reconsider the ban, stating that it has made it challenging for bowlers to achieve reverse swing.
The history of the saliva ban
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the ICC implemented a temporary ban on the use of saliva on the ball to prevent the spread of the virus. Initially expected to be lifted once the pandemic subsided, the ban became permanent in September 2022. As a result, players are no longer allowed to use saliva to shine the ball, affecting the ability to get reverse swing.
Ashwin’s response to Shami’s plea
Responding to Shami’s appeal, Ashwin made an intriguing claim, suggesting that the ICC’s decision to maintain the ban might be based on research indicating saliva’s ineffectiveness in aiding reverse swing. While acknowledging the challenges faced by bowlers, Ashwin proposed that if saliva usage is not proven to be problematic, the ban should be reconsidered.
“ICC released some papers after research showed that saliva did not aid reverse swing much, not putting saliva on the ball has not made a huge difference. I do not know how they did the research, but saliva should be allowed again if it is not a problem. Otherwise, cricketers have to get on with it,” Ashwin stated on his YouTube channel ‘Ash ki Baat.’
Current scenario
Meanwhile, Mohammed Shami is actively participating in the Champions Trophy, with India securing a spot in the final against New Zealand. The much-anticipated title match is set to take place on Sunday (March 9) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in Dubai.
As the debate on the saliva ban in cricket continues, Ashwin and Shami’s perspectives shed light on the complexities surrounding this issue. While bowlers advocate for the reinstatement of saliva, the ICC’s stance emphasizes the importance of maintaining hygiene protocols and player safety in the post-pandemic era. Ultimately, the decision lies with the governing body, shaping the future of ball maintenance techniques in the sport.
Impact of the saliva ban on bowlers
Since the ban on using saliva on the ball was put in place, bowlers have had to adapt their strategies to maintain the condition of the ball. Without the ability to shine one side of the ball with saliva, achieving reverse swing has become more challenging. Bowlers like Mohammed Shami have expressed their frustration at the limitations imposed by the ban, as reverse swing plays a crucial role in their bowling tactics.
Bowlers have had to rely on other methods to try and generate swing, such as using sweat or rubbing the ball on their clothing. However, these alternatives have not proven to be as effective as saliva in aiding reverse swing. As a result, bowlers have had to work harder to find ways to outsmart the batsmen and make an impact in matches.
The science behind reverse swing
Reverse swing is a phenomenon that occurs when the ball moves in the opposite direction to what is expected, making it difficult for batsmen to predict and play the delivery. It is a valuable skill for bowlers, particularly in the latter stages of a match when the ball has become worn and the conditions are conducive to swing bowling.
Research has shown that the application of saliva on one side of the ball can create a thin layer that helps the ball swing in the air. This added layer of moisture and weight imbalance is what enables bowlers to achieve reverse swing and trouble the batsmen. Without the use of saliva, bowlers face a significant challenge in generating the same level of movement on the ball.
The role of the ICC in shaping cricket regulations
The ICC plays a crucial role in setting and enforcing regulations that govern the game of cricket. Decisions regarding playing conditions, equipment, and player conduct are made by the ICC to ensure fair play and the safety of all participants. The ban on using saliva on the ball was implemented as a precautionary measure during the COVID-19 pandemic to reduce the risk of virus transmission among players.
While the ban was initially intended to be temporary, the ICC decided to make it permanent based on the advice of health experts and considerations for player safety. The governing body continues to monitor developments in the sport and make decisions that align with current health guidelines and safety protocols.
Looking ahead
As the debate on the saliva ban in cricket evolves, it raises important questions about the balance between tradition and innovation in the sport. While bowlers advocate for the reinstatement of saliva to aid in achieving reverse swing, the ICC must weigh these concerns against the broader context of player safety and hygiene protocols.
Ultimately, the decision on whether to lift the ban on saliva usage will have far-reaching implications for the future of cricket. Bowlers will continue to adapt and refine their skills to cope with the current regulations, while the governing body will need to carefully consider the impact of any changes on the integrity and competitiveness of the game.
With players like Ravichandran Ashwin and Mohammed Shami sharing their perspectives on this issue, the conversation around ball maintenance techniques in cricket is sure to remain a topic of interest and debate among fans, players, and officials alike.
