Mohammed Shami urges ICC to revoke ban on saliva usage
What's the story
Indian pacer Mohammed Shami has called on the International Cricket Council (ICC) to rethink its ban on saliva usage. He believes that the ban has adversely affected the art of reverse swing in cricket. Shami's remarks came after his stellar show in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy semi-final against Australia, where he claimed three wickets for 48 runs in 10 overs. Notably, the ICC banned the use of saliva on cricket ball during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Ball maintenance
Saliva's role in maintaining ball condition
Traditionally, saliva has been used by fast bowlers around the world to maintain the shine of one side of an old ball, allowing it to reverse swing. However, the technique has become less effective in ODIs with the introduction of two new balls from both ends. Shami had highlighted the issue during a media interaction after India's match against Australia in Dubai.
Saliva
How saliva usage benefits fielding side
The advent of COVID-19 pandemic led to a ban on saliva usage to shine the cricket ball across international formats. After a two-year period, the ban was made permanent. In cricket, maintaining the ball is important, especially in the longer formats. Shining one side of the ball helps the players produce reverse swing. Hence, the fielding side regularly applies either saliva or sweat for this purpose.
Pacer responsibilities
Shami's role as frontline pacer
Shami has been carrying the burden of being India's lead pacer since returning from a lengthy injury layoff. He has been sharing the new ball with either Harshit Rana or Hardik Pandya, with Jasprit Bumrah missing out due to injury in the Champions Trophy. Despite the added burden, Shami is keen on finding his rhythm and making a huge difference to his team's performance in the ICC tournament.
Team contribution
Shami's commitment to team performance
Having taken eight wickets in the ongoing Champions Trophy, Shami is determined to give it his all with Bumrah missing. "There is a load when you are the one main pacer, and the other is an all-rounder. You have to pick wickets and lead from the front," he said, making it clear he is ready to lead India's bowling attack.