In a historic decision that has stirred excitement among cricket lovers, the BCCI has officially lifted the long-standing ban on using saliva to shine the ball during IPL 2025. The move marks a significant shift in cricket regulations. It aims to bring back the once-essential art of reverse swing into the modern T20 format. People widely discuss the lifting of the saliva ban in IPL 2025.
BCCI confirmed the decision after consulting with leading medical professionals, player associations, and international cricket boards. The ICC initially enforced the ban during the COVID-19 pandemic to minimize the risk of virus transmission. However, with global health conditions improving and comprehensive bio-bubbles in place for the IPL, the BCCI felt it was the right time to roll back the restriction. The regulation change regarding saliva and the IPL 2025 ban is expected to enhance the game’s dynamics.
According to officials, the decision will positively impact the quality of bowling, especially for pacers who rely heavily on reverse swing. Bowlers had previously expressed difficulty getting the old ball to behave. This was especially true in dry Indian conditions, where sweat alone wasn’t enough to maintain one side of the ball. News that the saliva ban has been lifted for IPL 2025 is game-changing for bowlers.
Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, and other prominent fast bowlers have long advocated for the return of saliva. They argue that it plays a vital role in swinging the old ball. Former players like Zaheer Khan and Vernon Philander also supported the move. They believe it would bring balance back between bat and ball in high-scoring games. Many think that the decision to lift the saliva ban in IPL 2025 will prove these advocates right.
Mohammed Shami urges the ICC to revoke the ban on using saliva to shine the ball, in a bid to bring reverse swing back into play 🗣️ pic.twitter.com/k6tRhqpEsp
— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) March 6, 2025
IPL franchises have also welcomed the decision. They expect their pace batteries to benefit from enhanced control and movement with the old ball. Teams such as Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans, known for their bowling attacks, will likely gain an edge with this rule change. This year, IPL 2025’s new saliva ban policy will greatly benefit these franchises.
The BCCI’s medical team has confirmed that they will continue to enforce strict hygiene protocols even after lifting the saliva ban. They will conduct regular testing for players and staff. They will immediately isolate anyone who shows symptoms. The board has also mandated hand sanitization and face mask usage in dugouts and team areas. The process in IPL 2025 after the saliva ban is lifted will emphasize safety.
Cricket fans around the globe have expressed excitement on social media after hearing the announcement. “Reverse swing is back, and we can’t wait to see magic spells under lights!” wrote a fan on Twitter. Memes and video clips of legendary reverse swing dismissals have already gone viral. The cricketing world anticipates a thrilling IPL season with the lifted saliva ban in 2025.
This decision also aligns with the feedback from many cricket experts. They have criticized flat pitches and the imbalance favouring batters in recent seasons. The return of saliva now allows bowlers more tools in their arsenal to fight back. This will be especially useful during the death overs when yorkers and reverse swing can become game-changers. Thus, lifting the saliva ban for IPL 2025 may solve these issues.
As the tournament opener approaches on March 22 at Eden Gardens, anticipation continues to grow. With the saliva ban lifted, IPL 2025 promises power-hitting and some fierce battles between bat and ball. The return of the reverse swing could lead to tighter contests, more thrilling finishes, and a richer tactical dimension to the shortest format. The saliva ban lifted for IPL 2025 may be the most awaited change.
By allowing the use of saliva once again, the BCCI has not only restored a classic skill but also honoured cricket’s traditional essence in a modern avatar. This season promises to be spectacular as it blends nostalgia with innovative ideas. Cricket fans couldn’t be more thrilled, anticipating the Saliva ban lifted for IPL 2025.
