Bowlers need alternative for saliva: Gambhir

A ban on the usage of saliva to shine the ball when sport resumes has been recommended in order to stop the transmission of the coronavirus. In fact, the ICC Cricket Committee has said the same and a decision on it can be expected next month.

“It will be the hardest thing for the bowlers. ICC has to come out with an alternative. Without shining the ball, I don’t think it will be an even contest between bat and ball,” Gambhir told IANS. “It is going to be very mportant.Otherwise, there would be no fun watching cricket,” he added.

Gambhir remarked there would be apprehensions in the minds of the players once they get back on the field and take part in competitive sport post the COVID-19 lockdowns.

All cricketing activities across the world have been suspended since mid-March following the outbreak of the coronavirus. “It depends on the individual (fear in minds of cricketers). But yes, there will be little pprehensions when they go out and play. Probably after some time, it will go in the heat of the game. Once players are on the pitch and ease into the game, there will be excitement of playing,” added Gambhir.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 stands postponed while there are doubts about the T20 World Cup. However, Gambhir said if ICC will be able to take all the participating nations on board, the tournament might take place as per schedule in October-November in Australia.

“It depends on ICC and the other boards. They have to get the various stakeholders involved, including all cricketing nations. They have to come together and decide. If all countries come together on board, then the T20 World Cup will go ahead. Otherwise, I don’t see it happening,” he said.