Anil Chaudhary on Saliva Ban Lifting: After announcing the retirement from International and IPL cricket, Anil Chaudhary reveals about the lifting of saliva ban which has been in news for a long time. Chaudhary who started his umpiring career in 2013 has officiated in 12 Tests, 49 ODIs and 131 IPL matches. Overall, he has stood as umpire in 91 first-class games, 114 List A and 28 T20s.
In this exclusive interview with News24’s Aditya Mallick, Anil Chaudhary has spoken about the saliva ban thing and how bowlers have to utilize the new rule accordingly.
What Anil Chaudhary Said On Saliva Ban Lifting?
When the former umpire was asked about his opinion that, What are your thoughts on lifting the ban on saliva to shine the ball? He replied:
“I believe these bowlers have been doing this since childhood, so it’s very difficult to change their habits. In fact, it’s challenging to manage in other sports as well, since people develop such habits. As long as bowlers stay within the guidelines, it’s acceptable.
Of course, they shouldn’t overdo it, which was the case under the previous rule as well. Now, we’re returning to the normal rules, similar to the pre-COVID period.”
Now Bowlers Can Apply Saliva
According to the sources, BCCI has lifted the ban on the use of saliva on the ball. This decision allows bowlers to apply saliva once again, a practice that was banned during the COVID-19 pandemic to prevent the spread of the virus. Now, bowlers will be seen using saliva on the ball in IPL 2025, just like before the pandemic.
More In New Rule
In a new rule aimed at helping bowlers manage the effects of dew, a second ball will be used in the second innings of the match. The second ball will be introduced after the 11th over of the second innings.
This change is designed to reduce the impact of dew, which often makes it difficult for bowlers to grip the ball and gives an advantage to the batsmen, who can capitalize on the conditions to score heavily.
