MCC To Review Short-Pitched Bowling Rules In Tests; Proposes The Extension Of Saliva Ban

The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), the custodian of laws of the game, it’s cricket committee, had met to discuss and evaluate a few rules of the game. The issues taken up in the meeting ranged from short-pitched bowling, Decision Review System, saliva ban, apart from the future of the World Test Championship. Cricket’s stalwarts, namely Kumar Sangakkara, Sourav Ganguly, Shane Warne, headed by Mike Gatting, met virtually.

MCC’s Cricket Committee, headed by former England captain Mike Gatting, is set to embark on a global consultation drive to decide on whether some rules need change. One of the most burgeoning topics that have emerged is the use of short-pitched deliveries and if it fits in the modern game.

The various aspects to consider in this are the balance between the bat and ball and if lower-order batsmen must be provided with more protection than given currently. Nevertheless, the MCC was in favour of keeping short-pitched bowling intact and that it is an integral part of the modern elite game.

MCC contemplates extending saliva ban:

With the saliva standing prohibited to shine the ball ever since COVID-19 emerged to control the outbreak, the committee has closely monitored the application of only sweat on the ball relating to the balance of the game. But many fear that the prohibition of saliva might make the sport too batsmen-friendly. There were also recommendations for banning the saliva permanently; however, for many, it seemed premature.

“Since the regulations were introduced, the committee has been closely monitoring the application of only sweat on the ball in relation to the balance of the game. There were some fears raised initially that prohibiting the use of saliva may make conditions too friendly to batsmen,” the statement read.

MCC’s discussion on DRS’ umpire’s call system:

Umpire’s call in the Decision Review System has remained a topic of intense debate for quite some time now with polarising views. The committee members debated the issue, stating that to many people, it felt confusing, mainly when the same ball could either be Out or Not out depending on the on-field umpire’s original decision. Hence, there should either be out or not out with no umpire’s call.

On the other hand, certain others felt satisified with the current system, underlining the importance of retaining the human element of the on-field’s umpire decision. It takes into account the benefit of the doubt that has existed umpires’ decisions for many years. Hence, it should continue to be the same way.

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