Courtesy: IPL/BCCI
With only one day remaining for the commencement of the 2025 IPL season, the buzz around the tournament is building fast. The first match to be played is between the Royal Challengers Bangalore and the Kolkata Knight Riders. With a lot of pre-match media interaction with both of these teams, a topic of discussion has been the recently introduced second ball rule and the removal of the ban on using saliva on the ball.
The second ball rule allows the bowling team to request a ball change once between the 12th and 20th overs of the second innings. This measure aims to counteract the disadvantage bowlers face when the ball becomes wet and difficult to grip due to dew.
RCB coach Andy Flower and KKR spinner Varun Chakravarthy also interacted with the media regarding these changes. RCB head coach Andy Flower has expressed strong support for IPL new rule allowing bowling teams to change the ball after the 11th over of the second innings to counteract the effects of dew. Flower believes this change promotes fairness by balancing the contest between bat and ball.
I don’t think the saliva ban will have that much importance: RCB coach Andy Flower talks about the new rules
Talking to the media, Andy Flower said, "I've always wondered why there was this reticence on the umpires' part to change the ball, to make it an even and fair contest, and that's what we're looking for." In context to the lifting of the saliva ban, Flower said, "I don’t think lifting the saliva ban will have that much importance. But I really like that captains can decide when they want to change the ball." Overall, Flower's endorsement reflects a positive reception among coaching staff, acknowledging the rule's potential to enhance the quality and fairness of matches in the IPL.
KKR spinner Varun Chakravarthy also spoke out about the same saying, "There might not be much difference when it comes to saliva but changing the ball could benefit the spinners by reducing the impact of the dew." This rule aims to address challenges posed by dew, which often makes the ball slippery and difficult to handle, thereby leveling the playing field between bat and ball.
Chakravarthy's support reflects a broader approval among bowlers, particularly spinners, who anticipate improved performance under these adjusted conditions.
