BCCI has decided to lift the saliva ban just in time for IPL 2025, a move that is set to rekindle the competition between bat and ball. Since the saliva ban was enforced, bowlers have struggled to find their footing, allowing batsmen to dominate the game.
Consequently, teams have been setting seemingly mountainous targets—indicative of a batting trend that has become increasingly difficult for bowlers to counteract.
Historically, before the ban took effect, the average score for the first innings in IPL games ranged from 166 in 2017 to 172 in 2018 and 167 in 2019. However, following the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent use of hybrid models in 2020, 2021, and 2022, counting those years in terms of scoring could be misleading.
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As we returned to a more stable format in 2023, the first innings average surged to 183, and surprisingly escalated to 190 in 2024. This dramatic increase raised eyebrows around the league, as teams had regularly posting scores exceeding 250 runs.
The lifting of the saliva ban is likely to shift this trend. The added ability for pacers to use saliva will enhance their grip on the ball, improving swing and seam movement—thus imposing more pressure on batsmen. Consequently, we can expect the first innings average scores to likely come down as bowlers find new vigor in their craft.
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As IPL 2025 approaches, the revival of this crucial bowling tactic promises an exciting contest between batters and bowlers, revitalizing the spirit of cricket in the league.
