IPL Bowlers Benefit from Reverse Swing After Saliva Ban Lifted

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has taken a notable turn with the reintroduction of saliva on the cricket ball, a practice that was recently reinstated following its ban during the COVID-19 pandemic. This change, implemented just ahead of the IPL’s 18th edition in March 2025, has reinvigorated the dynamics of fast bowling by enabling bowlers to generate reverse swing.

One of the standout performers benefiting from this change is Mohammed Siraj, representing Gujarat Titans. Siraj has displayed exceptional form this season, highlighted by impressive bowling figures of 4-17 in a match against Sunrisers Hyderabad, leading his team to a seven-wicket victory. Siraj expressed satisfaction with the rule change, noting that it notably benefits fast bowlers by allowing them to effectively shine one side of the ball for generating late swing.

Before the recent victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad, Siraj made significant contributions in previous matches, including match-winning figures of 3-19 against Royal Challengers Bangalore. So far, he has taken a total of nine wickets in just four matches this season, underscoring his positive impact with the return of saliva on the ball.

Beyond Siraj, other players like Arshdeep Singh of Punjab Kings have also utilized saliva effectively. Arshdeep’s performance in his team’s season opener, where he took key wickets, exemplifies the broad impact of this rule change on fast bowling strategies in the IPL.

The art of reverse swing, which has roots in techniques popularized by legendary Pakistani bowlers such as Sarfraz Nawaz and Imran Khan, relies heavily on the ability to shine one side of the ball with saliva. This technique enhances a bowler’s ability to produce swing, particularly in the later stages of an innings, offering a competitive edge that has been long awaited by bowlers since the saliva ban was put in place as a precautionary measure by the International Cricket Council (ICC) during the pandemic.

As the season progresses, the return of saliva usage is anticipated to continue playing a critical role in bowling performances, reshaping the tactical landscape of the IPL and providing a platform for fast bowlers to shine again.