Coronavirus outbreak: ICC to consider legalised ball-tampering
The International Cricket Council (ICC) may allow players to use artificial substances in order to shine the red ball under the supervision of umpires. This could prevent the players from applying saliva or sweat on the ball, thereby safeguarding them amid coronavirus pandemic. Reportedly, ICC's medical team will address the issue before cricket resumes. Here is more.
The authorities are open to the idea
The authorities are open to the option of allowing an agreed artificial substance to polish the ball under the supervision of the umpires - in the fashion they currently allow the ball to be cleaned by players under supervision," a report in ESPNcricinfo said.
Shining the ball is important to fetch reverse swing
For the fielding side, shining one side of the ball becomes necessary. It helps the bowlers to garner reverse swing later in the match. The players had been using saliva to polish ball, but the medical committee is finding other effective ways to encourage this method. Usage of an artificial substance, which was earlier deemed as ball-tampering, is one way to counter it.
Here is what the Laws state
The Laws of cricket states that umpires should immediately reprimand players if they are found changing ball's condition. According to Law 41.3.1, the umpires shall make frequent and irregular inspections of the ball. In addition, they shall immediately inspect the ball if they suspect anyone of attempting to change the condition of the ball, except as permitted in 41.3.2.
What does 41.3.2 state?
As per 41.3.2, it is an offence for any player to take any action which changes the condition of the ball. Except in carrying out his/her normal duties, a batsman is not allowed to wilfully damage the ball.
Test cricket could become hard for bowlers, feels Hazlewood
Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood believe Test cricket will become miserable for bowlers if the shine gets out of play. "I think the white ball would be fine, but Test cricket would be very hard. Bowlers rely on any sort of sideways movement in the air," he said. He added, "Whether you use saliva or sweat, maybe one person can do it."
