[Saba Sports News] In the BAN vs NZ Test at Sylhet, New Zealand all-rounder Glenn Phillips was seen applying saliva to the ball on the third day, contravening the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) ban on this practice. This rule, initially implemented due to COVID-19 and later made permanent, was breached during Bangladesh’s second innings in the 34th over. Phillips was observed using saliva twice in that over, following the first ball.
Despite this clear violation, on-field umpires Ahsan Raza and Paul Reiffel did not take any action. An ICC spokesperson, according to ESPNcricinfo, stated that addressing on-field incidents is solely the responsibility of the match officials.
The prohibition of saliva, under Law 41.3, aims to maintain the integrity of the game and prevent unfair manipulation of the ball, like using sugary sweets. Research by the MCC found that removing saliva did not significantly impact bowlers’ ability to swing the ball, as sweat proved an effective alternative. The law clearly states that using saliva on the ball is an unfair method and is treated as such, ensuring no ambiguity in its application.