The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially lifted the ban on the use of saliva to shine the ball, allowing it for the upcoming 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL). This marks a significant shift in the regulations governing one of cricket's most prominent events. The decision comes following a meeting at the BCCI headquarters, attended by all IPL franchise captains, where the majority expressed their support for the move.
The use of saliva for shining the ball was initially prohibited in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As a precaution, the International Cricket Council (ICC) made the ban permanent in 2022, although players were still permitted to use sweat for ball maintenance. Until now, the IPL adhered to this prohibition. With the latest decision, the IPL becomes the first major cricketing tournament to allow saliva again. A spokesperson from the BCCI confirmed, “The saliva ban has been lifted. A majority of the captains were in favor of the move.”
In cricket, bowlers traditionally use saliva or sweat to maintain one side of the ball while allowing the other side to wear naturally. This technique significantly impacts swing movement, particularly reverse swing, a pivotal element of the game. The lifting of the ban has garnered support from various players, including Indian pacer Mohammed Shami, who voiced his disapproval of the ban during the Champions Trophy, arguing that permitting saliva use would restore the essential tactical element of reverse swing. New Zealand’s Tim Southee shared similar sentiments during an ESPNcricinfo segment, stating, “That was a rule brought around Covid with the virus going around the world, but I think as a bowler, you want to have a slight advantage.”
2025 is shaping up to be a notable year for cricket, particularly with the ICC Champions Trophy having taken place from February 19 to March 9 in Pakistan, featuring the top eight ranked men's national teams. This prestigious tournament, the ninth edition since its inception, showcased some of the best talents in the sport, with Group A including Pakistan, India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh, while Group B comprised South Africa, Australia, Afghanistan, and England.
One of the tournament's standout moments was Afghanistan's stunning victory over England, spearheaded by Ibrahim Zadran, who scored an impressive 177 runs off 146 balls. This performance marked Zadran as the first cricketer from Afghanistan to score a century in a Champions Trophy match, highlighting the nation’s growing significance in international cricket.
The clash between India and Pakistan was particularly memorable, ending with India claiming victory by six wickets. Virat Kohli was named the player of the match, successfully reaching a remarkable 100 runs despite a recent dip in form. His performance and the dominance of India throughout the tournament underlined the team's legacy in the One Day International format, with a history of World Cup triumphs and sustained excellence. The match displayed India's prowess, especially after a pivotal breakdown of a key partnership between Saud Shakeel and Mohammad Rizwan when the score rested at 47.
While injuries remain a concern—such as Mohammed Shami's ankle misstep during the tournament—this did little to deter India's path through the competition. Following their emphatic matches against Bangladesh and New Zealand, India secured the ICC Champions Trophy final in Dubai, ultimately defeating New Zealand by four wickets. this victory marked India's 23rd win from 24 games across the last three years of men’s ICC events.
Despite approaching 37 years of age, Virat Kohli continues to be regarded as cricket's biggest star. Featured in Forbes’ list of wealthiest athletes, his presence continues to dominate the sport, captivating audiences worldwide. However, there is growing concern regarding who will succeed him as cricket’s next transcendent player, especially as he nears the twilight of his illustrious career. The transition post-Kohli will be crucial for the Indian team and the broader cricket landscape.
Kohli, who has yet to seize an IPL title during his long tenure with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), remains central to the tournament. His record-setting 2016 season, considered the best ever in T20 cricket, only adds to the anticipation as the IPL approaches. Despite the continuous mockery surrounding RCB's lack of championships, Kohli's ability to perform in critical moments—orchestrated an outstanding performance in the Champions Trophy—keeps him as a focal point in the sport.
The IPL effectively shuts down international cricket for two months, creating a unique environment for both players and fans alike. Kohli, like LeBron James in the NBA, captures attention and conversation, making his matches must-watch events. As cricket enthusiasts gear up for the IPL 2025 following the BCCI's new regulations, all eyes will be on how players like Kohli navigate the increasingly competitive landscape of cricket. Once again, as the curtain rises on the IPL, it is expected that Kohli’s ability to draw excitement and viewership remains unrivaled.
