Is saliva use helping bowlers in IPL 2025?

In the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic, the ICC had initially banned the use of saliva on cricket balls. The rule was also enforced by BCCI in the Indian Premier League (IPL). However, this ban was recently lifted.

Recently, Delhi Capitals star Australian bowler Mitchell Starc shared his thoughts on the use of saliva in cricket, particularly distinguishing its impact on red-ball versus white-ball games. 

Following Starc's impressive show that helped Delhi Capitals (DC) register victory over Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Wednesday, the speedster weighed in on a topic of interest among bowlers.

Starc on Saliva Use

Starc expressed his preference for using sweat over saliva, especially in the context of white-ball cricket.

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"I don’t use saliva. I think it’s a myth. Some people think they swear by it. I don’t know what the difference is with sweat and saliva. I don’t reckon it makes a difference. It can make a difference on the red ball. I don’t reckon it makes a difference on the white ball," said Starc during a recent interaction.

Notably, Starc was impressive for Delhi Capitals against Rajasthan Royals. He expertly delivered yorkers to prevent RR’s batsmen Yashasvi Jaiswal, Riyan Parag, and Shimron Hetmyer from gaining control over the match.