IPL 2025: BCCI Lifts Saliva Ban, Introduces Second Ball for 2nd Innings

IPL 2025: Saliva Ban Lifted, Second Ball Introduced for 2nd Innings

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced major rule changes for the upcoming IPL 2025 season, including lifting the ban on saliva use and introducing a second ball for the second innings of night matches. These updates were discussed during a captains’ and team managers’ meeting at the Cricket Centre in Mumbai on March 20.

Second Ball to Counter Dew Effect

One of the most significant adjustments for IPL 2025 is the introduction of a second ball in the second innings, which will come into play after the 11th over. The primary reason behind this rule is to neutralize the advantage gained by teams batting second due to the dew factor in night matches.

The BCCI believes that with excessive dew making it difficult for bowlers to grip the ball in evening matches, this rule will ensure a more balanced contest between bat and ball. The change was discussed at length, and the governing body eventually decided that umpires would have the discretion to implement it based on the amount of dew present on the ground.

A source from the meeting confirmed, “The second ball will only be introduced in night matches, not afternoon games. The umpires will assess the conditions and make the final decision on whether to change the ball.”

Saliva Ban Revoked After Four Years

Another key rule revision is the lifting of the saliva ban, which was originally imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic as a health precaution. Since then, fast bowlers and cricketing experts have repeatedly urged cricket authorities to allow saliva use again, as it plays a crucial role in generating swing and reverse swing.

One of the strongest advocates for revoking the ban was Mohammed Shami, who publicly called for its removal during the Champions Trophy 2025 in Dubai. “We always keep requesting the authorities to allow us to use saliva so that swing and reverse comes into play during matches,” Shami had stated.

Other international pacers, including Vernon Philander and Tim Southee, also supported Shami’s appeal, arguing that allowing saliva would restore a fairer contest between bat and ball, especially in longer formats and high-stakes IPL games.

Why These Changes Matter

The introduction of the second ball and the return of saliva usage are expected to have a major impact on the way IPL matches are played:

• Better Ball Control for Bowlers: With bowlers now allowed to use saliva again, pacers can achieve more swing, especially under lights.

• Balanced Playing Conditions: The second ball rule will counter the disadvantage bowlers face due to the dew factor in night matches.

• Tactical Adjustments: Captains and coaches will now have to plan their bowling rotations keeping in mind the ball change after the 11th over in the second innings.

Reactions from the Cricketing Community

While the saliva ban reversal has been widely welcomed, reactions to the second ball rule have been mixed. Some cricket analysts believe that introducing a second ball will benefit bowlers, while others argue that batters may also benefit, as a newer ball could come onto the bat better in the later stages of the innings.

With the IPL 2025 season set to begin soon, teams will need to adapt quickly to these changes, as they could play a crucial role in match strategies and outcomes. All eyes will now be on how these adjustments impact the on-field dynamics when the tournament gets underway.