Mohd. Shami (Source: AP Photos)
Indian fast-bowler, Mohammed Shami has urged the International Cricket Council to allow the use of saliva and revert the rule to bring reverse swing into play again. Five years ago, the world was forced to tackle a deadly virus called Coronavirus disease or Covid-19, owing to its seriousness, the use of saliva in cricket was strictly prohibited by the ICC.
Shami Makes A Plea To Return The Use Of Saliva
Saliva was traditionally used by pacers worldwide to maintain the shine on one side of the old ball, crucial for generating reverse swing. However, this technique has become less relevant in modern ODIs, especially with the introduction of two new balls from either end. As a result, the art of reverse swing bowling, once a hallmark of fast bowlers, has largely disappeared.
Making a strong appeal to the cricket council through media after the end of the Champions Trophy semifinal against Australia in Dubai, Mohd. Shami said:
“We are trying to reverse, but you are not getting the use of saliva into the game. We are constantly appealing to allow the use of saliva, and it will be interesting with the reverse swing."
Shami Takes Charge Of India's Bowling Unit
Shami, who is returning to cricket after a long phase of injury, is currently the front-line pacer for the Men in Blue. Since, Jasprit Bumrah has been ruled out of the tournament because of his back injury, it's Shami who is main man in charge. Mohammed Shami acknowledged the challenge of being India's lone frontline pacer after a long injury layoff but is focused on regaining his rhythm for the ICC tournament.
“I am trying to get my rhythm back and contribute more to the team. It is a responsibility when there are no two proper pacers, and I have to shoulder more responsibility," Shami said.
Meanwhile, the Men In Blue are all set to play the final of the Champions Trophy 2025 on March 9, Sunday.
 "Muskaan Bhatt")
