Mohit Sharma Highlights Impact of Saliva and Ball Change Rule in IPL 2025

Delhi Capitals fast bowler Mohit Sharma has credited the return of saliva use on the ball for an increase in reverse swing in IPL 2025. Speaking ahead of DC's clash with Rajasthan Royals in Delhi, Mohit said the change has made a significant difference for bowlers, especially in conditions where sweat alone isn't enough to generate movement.

“100%. In 70% of the games, the ball is tailing in and it's only because the saliva is heavy, and our sweat is not so heavy,” Mohit said. “If the ball is heavier on one side it will tail in. Right now, there's not as much dew in most grounds to say that the wet ball is also reverse swing.”

The use of saliva had been banned globally by the ICC during the Covid-19 pandemic, a rule followed by all member boards for the last five years. However, ahead of the 2025 IPL season, the league reintroduced the use of saliva following a consensus among captains that it was crucial for maintaining ball condition and aiding swing.

Another significant rule change this season is the allowance for teams bowling second to change the ball after the 10th over—regardless of dew. This decision was introduced to counter the impact of a wet ball, which becomes difficult to grip and control under lights.

Mohit explained how this rule has benefited bowlers. “There’s help (after the ball is changed) and we saw it in the last game too,” he said, referring to DC’s recent match against Mumbai Indians in Delhi. “The first ball had been used for 12 overs and was a little wet because dew had started to settle. Later, in the 13th or 14th over, Karn (Sharma) bowled with the new ball and it turned immediately, getting Stubbs out.”

Mohit also pointed out that the newer, harder ball gives bowlers more confidence to execute specific deliveries. “If I'm bowling the 14th or 15th over after the ball change, I'll be more confident of bowling a yorker because the ball is dry—it won’t slip,” he said.

While dew continues to play a role in evening matches, the combination of saliva use and the mid-innings ball change has helped restore balance between bat and ball, providing much-needed assistance to bowlers in high-scoring games.

Delhi Capitals, who are currently in strong form, will be hoping these changes continue to benefit their bowling unit as they take on Rajasthan Royals in their next outing.