Just two days before the start of this year’s IPL, some major rule changes have been announced.
One of the biggest updates is the removal of the ban on using saliva to shine the ball, which was initially introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic for health safety reasons. Additionally, a new rule will be implemented in this season’s IPL, allowing the use of a second ball midway through the second innings.
On Thursday, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) held discussions with IPL franchise captains and managers at the Mumbai Cricket Centre. According to Cricbuzz, these key decisions were made during the meeting. However, BCCI has yet to make an official announcement regarding these new rules.
Cricketers traditionally use saliva to maintain the shine on the ball, which plays a crucial role in reverse swing for fast bowlers. However, the ICC banned its use during the pandemic.
Now that life has returned to normal, calls for lifting the ban have emerged. During the Champions Trophy, Indian pacer Mohammed Shami voiced his support for bringing back saliva usage, with New Zealand’s Tim Southee and South Africa’s Vernon Philander also backing the idea.
While the ICC has not yet lifted the restriction, IPL authorities have decided to revert to the old rule, allowing players to use saliva again.
Cricbuzz also reported that BCCI has introduced another significant rule change for night matches—after the 11th over of the second innings, a new ball may be introduced. This decision aims to counteract the impact of dew on matches.
According to The Times of India, umpires will inspect the ball after the 11th over. If excessive dew is found, the bowling team will be permitted to use a different ball. However, the replacement ball won’t be completely new but will be a relatively polished one.
Additionally, technology will play a bigger role in decision-making. If a team opts for a DRS (Decision Review System) on high no-balls or wide deliveries outside the off-stump, Hawk-Eye and ball-tracking technology will be used for accurate assessments. While DRS for wides was introduced last season, this time, advanced technology will be implemented.
The much-anticipated IPL season kicks off this Saturday.
