TV
As cricket enthusiasts gear up for the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced significant changes to the playing conditions. In a bold move aimed at balancing bat and ball competition, the BCCI has introduced the use of two balls during evening matches and lifted the saliva ban for shining the ball.
Why Two Balls in Evening Matches?
In the 18th edition of the IPL, evening games will feature two balls one to be changed after the tenth over of the second innings. This new rule addresses a long-standing issue in cricket: the dew factor, which often skews matches in favor of the team batting second.
Why It Matters:
Dew makes the ball slippery and harder to grip, significantly hampering bowlers’ ability to deliver effective spin or seam. This not only tilts the balance towards the batsmen but also makes toss-winning a decisive advantage. By introducing a fresh and dry ball mid-innings, both spinners and fast bowlers will have a better chance to maintain control, resulting in more competitive matches.
Zaheer Khan's opinion on it
"This change was long overdue. Bowlers need every bit of help they can get to counter the effects of dew. The return of saliva will also restore the lost art of reverse swing." the former Indian fast bowler said.
Also Read: IPL 2025: What is RAPP- The unique rule that allows a player from outside the team to play?
Saliva Ban Lifted to Aid Reverse Swing
In another major decision, the BCCI has lifted the saliva ban that had been in place since the COVID-19 pandemic. The ban, initially imposed to curb transmission risks, had hampered fast bowlers' ability to generate reverse swing, a crucial aspect of their game.
With saliva allowed once again, bowlers can maintain the ball’s condition more effectively, especially in the latter stages of the innings. This move has been welcomed by players and experts alike, who believe it will restore the traditional art of swing bowling.
A Step Towards Fair Play
The BCCI's decisions reflect a commitment to fair play and balanced competition. For years, bowlers have struggled in evening matches due to the overwhelming influence of dew, and the saliva ban only made things worse. With both these changes, the 2025 IPL season is expected to showcase more even contests between bat and ball, giving bowlers a fighting chance to demonstrate their skills.
