5 Ball-Tampering Techniques Used by Cricketers

Ball tampering has been quite a common practice in cricket since yesteryears. In the earlier days, players didn’t use to get caught because of minimum cameras. Using saliva and mint, along with other foreign substances have been quite common.

However, in the recent years, due to the emergence of several cameras around the ground, players are often caught on the camera trying to apply a foreign substance on the ball.

Very recently, it was Australian skipper and vice-captain Steven Smith and David Warner who got involved in the infamous ball-tampering saga. Cameron Bancroft was caught on Live TV trying to apply the glue of sandpaper on the ball to extract more reverse swing.

Following the allegations, the trio was suspended for a year and nine months, respectively.

Now without wasting any time, let us have a look at five common ball-tampering methods which has been used by players over the years

Roughing the ball with nails

It is a method which has got down considerable due to the interference of more cameras. However, this is a pretty common method used by players to extract reverse swing.

We have seen players shining the ball and rubbing it on their trousers, and at times we have seen the interference of fingernails as well.

It reduces the weight of the ball. The method has been a smart move used by cricketers over the world. However, if caught there are pretty hefty consequences. However, this method was important in bringing reverse swing into the game.

Repeatedly banging one side of the ball on the surface

It is also a pretty common method to wipe off the shine of the ball. Players often bang the roughened or lesser shiny side on the ground.

Due to the parched nature of the pitch, the shine goes off pretty quickly which in turn allows reverse swing to come in to play.

After banging it on the ground, sweat and spit are applied on the shiny side to make it heavy.

However, in the recent times, the umpires have kept a close look and sanctions are made if the players are found to interfere with the ball.

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Using lip balm

Applying lip balm has also been a common practice to keep the shine going on one side of the ball.

They try to make the ball heavy on one side which in turn helps the bowlers extract reverse swing.

It also helps the bowlers generate blend and movement. However, this is also regarded as a foul practice under current rules. If a player gets caught, he has to face the consequences.

Using mint saliva

Players often using saliva mixed with mint to gain the advantage of the conditions.

Players often chew a mint and can be seen applying the saliva on the shinier side. It is done to make one side heavier and thus create an imbalance to generate reverse swing.

When the mint is mixed with saliva, it means it will be around for a longer period. It helps the bowlers extract some good swing in batting friendly conditions.

Picking the seam

The seam of a match ball remains pronounced for almost 30-40 over. From there on, it starts to wear away a bit.

The ball tends to lose its shine and seam starts to come off. During this time, the players try to alter the condition of the seam and make it pronounced. It helps the ball move in the opposite direction.

It can be done quite easily. It can also be done by giving removing dirt as an excuse. However, if the on-field umpires and the match referees interfere, players can get penalized.

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