IPL 2025: Sarandeep Singh Supports New Ball Rule and Saliva Ban Lift
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Sarandeep Singh, a former Indian spinner and selector, has endorsed the new second new ball rule and the removal of the saliva ban for IPL 2025, considering these changes beneficial for bowlers and the overall competition.
Key Takeaways
- Sarandeep Singh supports the new second new ball rule.
- Removal of the saliva ban aids bowlers in maintaining the ball.
- The changes are expected to restore balance between bat and ball.
- Mohammed Shami's advocacy led to the lifting of the saliva ban.
- The Impact Player rule enhances team strategy and benefits local players.
New Delhi, March 20 (NationPress) Sarandeep Singh, a former Indian spinner and national selector, has expressed his approval of the recent decisions regarding the second new ball rule in chases during evening matches and the removal of the saliva ban for the upcoming IPL 2025 season.
The dual rulings were announced prior to the 18th edition of the IPL after the BCCI hosted the mandatory meeting for team captains and managers at its Mumbai headquarters on Thursday.
These rulings serve as a significant relief for bowlers, as the implementation of a second new ball mitigates the dew factor, while the abolition of the saliva ban—which had been in effect globally since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic—will assist IPL bowlers in preserving the ball and facilitating reverse swing.
“This decision to introduce a second new ball is commendable because the game has been heavily skewed in favor of batsmen for quite some time. High scores, often exceeding 250-300 runs, have made it seem possible for teams to chase down such totals,” remarked Sarandeep, a JioStar expert, in an exclusive conversation with IANS ahead of the tournament's 18th edition.
He further noted, “The absence of effective spinners or fast bowlers made it easier for batsmen to dominate. With this new rule, bowlers will have an opportunity to reclaim their edge, resulting in a more exciting contest between bat and ball.”
Veteran Indian pacer Mohammed Shami had previously called for the elimination of the saliva ban during the team's victorious run in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, and it appears that the BCCI has taken his input seriously by lifting it for IPL 2025.
“This change is undoubtedly advantageous for bowlers, as we have been unable to maintain the ball's shine. When one side is polished and the other is not, the ball begins to reverse swing. In the past, fast bowlers would gain an upper hand in the final overs when the ball reversed due to shining,” he explained.
“With time, it was necessary to adapt these rules. For example, previously, if someone had a fever and contracted Covid-19, they could still participate in the game without needing to be isolated. Therefore, it is essential to evolve over time. The BCCI's decision is bold and will greatly benefit bowlers,” Sarandeep added, who recently served as Delhi’s head coach for the 2024-25 domestic season.
The Impact Player rule will be in effect until the 2027 edition of the tournament, and Sarandeep believes it has positively impacted Indian cricketers thus far. “The impact player rule provides teams with balance, allowing them to field an additional player during a match.”
“For instance, if the first four wickets fall early, you can substitute an extra batsman. Conversely, if a bowler is underperforming or the pitch is spinning, you can bring in a player with the required skill set based on the match scenario,” he elaborated.
“Thus, the impact player rule is beneficial. With these new regulations, teams batting first will gain an advantage as they can deploy an additional bowler. Most importantly, domestic players will significantly benefit from this, as while up to four foreign players can be included, local cricketers will receive an extra opportunity through the impact player rule, allowing young talents to participate,” he concluded.
