TEAMS who apply saliva to the ball in this summer’s Test matches face a five-run penalty.
The ICC yesterday confirmed a temporary law change that prohibits bowlers or fielders using saliva to help shine the ball because of Covid-19.
Umpires will initially show leniency as players adjust to the new regulation but will then issue warnings and penalties.
It will be difficult for some to change habits of a lifetime because many bowlers lick their fingers and touch the ball without even thinking.
England bowlers have been wearing headbands at nets sessions in recent weeks to try to stop them flicking away sweat from their faces.
The ECB have banned applying sweat to the ball but not the ICC.
An ICC spokesperson said: “Players will not be permitted to use saliva to shine the ball.
“If a player does apply saliva to the ball, the umpires will manage the situation with some leniency during an initial period of adjustment for the players.
“But subsequent instances will result in the team receiving a warning.
“A team can be issued up to two warnings per innings but repeated use of saliva on the ball will result in a five-run penalty to the batting side.
“Whenever saliva is applied to the ball, the umpires will be instructed to clean the ball before play recommences.”
CORONAVIRUS SUBS
Covid-19 subs have been confirmed for Test matches but not in one-dayers or T20 matches.
As with concussion subs, the replacement player must be like-for-like for the ill player.
England’s six home Tests against West Indies and Pakistan will be umpired by English umpires – rather than neutral umpires – because of international travel restrictions.
Because less experienced umpires might be on duty, teams will be allowed three DRS reviews per innings instead of two.
In white-ball cricket, they can have two reviews instead of one.
England and West Indies will also be allowed football-style sponsors logos across their chest.
In an attempt to limit the financial damage of Covid-19, teams will be permitted logos up to a size of 32 square inches on their shirts and sweaters.
England are sponsored by NatWest and the Windies by Sandals holiday resorts.
The regulation is initially for 12 months but could be extended.
One-day and T20 shirts already carry chest logos but this will be the first time they are permitted in Test cricket.
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