Mohit Sharma Explains How Saliva and Ball Change Rules Impact IPL 2025
Delhi Capitals’ fast bowler, Mohit Sharma, has highlighted the significant impact of the reintroduced saliva rule and the new ball change rule on the dynamics of bowling in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. In a pre-match press conference before Delhi Capitals’ clash against Rajasthan Royals, Sharma elaborated on how these rule changes have provided a much-needed boost for bowlers, particularly in countering the dew factor and enhancing swing.
Sharma emphasized the crucial role of saliva in generating reverse swing. “In about 70% of the games, we are seeing the ball tailing in, and it’s primarily due to the application of saliva,” he stated. He explained that saliva is heavier than sweat, creating an imbalance on the ball’s surface that promotes reverse swing. He clarified that this movement isn’t solely attributable to dew, as the conditions in many venues haven’t been excessively dewy. The reintroduction of saliva usage follows a five-year ban implemented globally by the International Cricket Council (ICC) during the COVID-19 pandemic. The IPL’s decision to reinstate the practice this season came after a consensus among team captains, who recognized its importance in maintaining ball condition and facilitating swing bowling.
The new ball change rule, allowing the bowling team to replace the ball after the 10th over irrespective of dew, has further leveled the playing field. This rule addresses the long-standing challenge of a wet ball under lights, which is difficult to grip and control, thus hindering bowlers’ ability to execute their variations effectively. Sharma illustrated the impact of this change, referencing a recent match against the Mumbai Indians. “We saw the benefit in our last game. The ball used for the first 12 overs was slightly damp due to the onset of dew. When Karn Sharma bowled with the new ball in the 13th or 14th over, it turned sharply immediately, resulting in the dismissal of Stubbs,” he explained.
This rule change has not only enhanced spin bowling but also boosted the confidence of pace bowlers. Sharma stated that a dry, new ball allows for better execution of yorkers, reducing the risk of the ball slipping from the hand, especially in the crucial death overs. He pointed out that having the option to bowl with a newer, harder ball in the latter stages of the innings provides bowlers with greater control and allows them to execute their plans more effectively.
While dew remains a factor in evening matches, the combined effect of the reintroduced saliva application and the mid-innings ball change has significantly shifted the balance between bat and ball. These changes have provided bowlers with valuable tools to combat the high-scoring tendencies often seen in T20 cricket. They offer greater control over the ball, allowing for more variations and increasing the chances of taking wickets. This enhanced competitiveness in bowling is expected to add an exciting dimension to the remainder of the IPL 2025 season. Delhi Capitals, currently in good form, will be looking to leverage these rule changes to their advantage in their upcoming match against Rajasthan Royals. The team hopes that their bowling attack can continue to capitalize on these favorable conditions to restrict opposition scoring and secure crucial victories.
