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The Indian Premier League (IPL), renowned for its dynamic and innovative approach to cricket, is poised to introduce yet another groundbreaking rule change in its 2025 season: the ‘Second Ball’ rule. This latest addition to the IPL’s regulatory framework aims to mitigate the significant impact of dew on night matches, a phenomenon that has often been perceived as unfairly disadvantaging bowling teams. The presence of dew makes it considerably more challenging for bowlers to maintain a firm grip on the ball, thereby diminishing their ability to execute deliveries with precision and control. This, in turn, provides batsmen with a distinct advantage, particularly during run chases, where the slippery ball makes it difficult for bowlers to contain scoring. Recognizing the need for a more equitable playing field, the IPL has devised the ‘Second Ball’ rule as a means of addressing this imbalance. The implementation of the ‘Second Ball’ rule is relatively straightforward. According to the regulations, on-field umpires will be responsible for assessing the condition of the ball after the 11th over of the second innings in night matches. If the umpires determine that the ball is excessively affected by dew, the bowling team will be granted the option to use a brand-new ball. This provision seeks to provide bowlers with a fairer opportunity to compete, enabling them to bowl with greater confidence and effectiveness, even in the presence of challenging dewy conditions. By allowing the use of a fresh, dry ball, the rule aims to restore some equilibrium to the contest between bat and ball, ensuring that bowlers are not unduly hampered by the environmental factors that can significantly influence the outcome of a match. It is important to note that the ‘Second Ball’ rule is specifically designed for night matches and will not be applicable during afternoon games, where dew is typically not a significant factor. This targeted approach ensures that the rule is only implemented in situations where it is genuinely needed, avoiding unnecessary disruptions to the game in conditions where dew is not a concern.
In addition to the introduction of the ‘Second Ball’ rule, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has also made a significant decision regarding the use of saliva on the ball. After a prolonged ban that was initially implemented as a precautionary measure during the COVID-19 pandemic, the BCCI has opted to lift the restriction on the use of saliva, effective immediately for the upcoming IPL season. This decision marks a notable shift from the strict hygiene protocols that were enforced during the height of the pandemic, reflecting a growing confidence in the management and containment of the virus. The ban on saliva was originally introduced in response to concerns that the practice of applying saliva to shine the ball could potentially facilitate the transmission of the virus. Health practitioners at the time advocated for strict hygiene measures, including physical distancing and the avoidance of sharing personal items, which led to the temporary prohibition of saliva's use in cricket. However, with the development of vaccines and improved understanding of the virus's transmission patterns, there has been a gradual relaxation of these restrictions in various sectors, including sports. The decision to lift the saliva ban in the IPL was reportedly made after a majority of team captains expressed their support for the move during a meeting held in Mumbai prior to the start of the league. While some captains apparently harbored reservations about reintroducing the practice, the majority ultimately favored its reinstatement, paving the way for the BCCI to formally lift the ban. This decision makes the IPL the first major cricket competition to reintroduce the use of saliva since the onset of the pandemic, setting a precedent for other leagues and tournaments to potentially follow suit.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) had initially implemented a temporary ban on the use of saliva on the ball as a precautionary measure during the COVID-19 pandemic. Subsequently, in 2022, the world governing body made the ban permanent, citing concerns about hygiene and the potential for virus transmission. The IPL, in its initial response, adhered to the ICC's guidelines and included the ban in its playing conditions. However, the IPL's regulations operate independently of the ICC's jurisdiction, providing the league with the autonomy to make its own decisions regarding playing conditions. The BCCI's decision to lift the saliva ban reflects a growing sense of confidence in the management of the pandemic and a desire to restore certain aspects of the game that had been temporarily suspended. The use of saliva has traditionally been a crucial aspect of cricket, particularly for bowlers, as it allows them to generate swing by polishing one side of the ball while leaving the other side rough. This creates a difference in air resistance on either side of the ball, causing it to deviate in flight and making it more difficult for batsmen to predict its trajectory. The lifting of the saliva ban is likely to be welcomed by bowlers, who will now have access to a tool that can help them to challenge batsmen and take wickets. However, it remains to be seen whether the decision will have a significant impact on the overall balance of the game. Some argue that the ban on saliva had actually leveled the playing field somewhat, as it reduced the advantage enjoyed by bowlers and made it more difficult for them to dominate matches. Others believe that the reinstatement of saliva will restore a more traditional balance between bat and ball, making the game more exciting and unpredictable. Ultimately, the impact of the BCCI's decision will depend on a variety of factors, including the conditions in which matches are played, the skill and adaptability of individual bowlers, and the overall strategies employed by teams.
Source: What is the 'Second Ball' rule in IPL 2025? All you need to know