Mohit Sharma on the Impact of Rule Changes in Restoring Bat-Ball Balance

IPL's Decision to Allow Saliva Use Welcomed by Bowlers

Delhi Capitals pacer Mohit Sharma has acknowledged the impact of rule changes in restoring the balance between bat and ball in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The latest move by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to permit saliva use in its domestic league has been wholeheartedly welcomed by bowlers.

Saliva Use Makes a Difference to Bowlers

According to Mohit, the saliva use has made a significant difference to bowlers in the IPL. "A 100 per cent, the saliva use has made a difference to bowlers this IPL," he said. "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."

Second Ball for the Team Bowling Second Helps Balance

The introduction of a second ball for the team bowling second has also helped bring the balance back between bat and ball. Mohit believes that this rule is "making a difference" for bowlers. "There's definite help (due to the ball-change) and we saw it in the last game too," he said.

Kuldeep Yadav's Miserly Bowling Praised

Mohit also lauded Kuldeep Yadav for his miserly bowling as the spinner continues to lead the Capitals' attack. Kuldeep is third on the list of wicket-takers in IPL 2025 with 10 scalps at an average of 11.20 after five games, but it's his economy rate of 5.60 – the best among all bowlers with a minimum of 10 overs – that has stood out in the high-scoring matches.

Effective Man Management by Axar Patel

Mohit praised Axar Patel for his effective man management in utilizing Kuldeep to pick wickets and break partnerships. "A captain's biggest role is effective man management, and he's been utilising KD very well to maximise his impact for the team," he said.