Bowlers can Use Saliva in IPL, BCCI has lifted the Ban

In a significant development for the Indian Premier League (IPL), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has lifted the ban on using saliva to shine the ball, effective from the upcoming IPL 2025 season. This decision comes after extensive internal discussions and will be presented to IPL team captains during a meeting in Mumbai. The use of saliva to maintain the ball’s condition was prohibited by the International Cricket Council (ICC) in 2020 as a precautionary measure against COVID-19. However, with the pandemic’s threat subsiding, the BCCI believes that allowing saliva usage in the IPL will benefit bowlers and restore traditional playing conditions. Additionally, the BCCI is considering expanding the Decision Review System (DRS) in IPL 2025 to include reviews for height wides and wides outside the off-stump. This change aims to provide teams with a fair opportunity to challenge marginal on-field wide calls. These proposed changes are set to enhance the playing experience ...