Vikram Rathour Reckons Ban On Saliva Will Be A Great Advantage For Batsmen

Vikram Rathour, former Indian batsman and their current batting coach, has reckoned that the ban on the use of saliva on a cricket ball will tilt the balance in favor of the batsmen.

For cricket to resume in the post corona world, the International Cricket Council [ICC] recently came up with a new set of playing conditions which includes a ban on the use of saliva by the bowlers. Since then, a lot of former and current cricketers have voiced their opinion against the same.

The idea of replacing saliva with artificial substance has been floating around but no conclusive decision has been taken thus far.

“If you are not allowed to put anything on the ball to shine, then yes, it could be an advantage for the batters. But if you can use your sweat, or if the ICC allows some artificial stuff to shine the ball, then the difference would not be too big. As long as it is going to be the same for all the teams, it should be fine.” Vikram Rathour told Times of India.

Also Read: Morne Morkel Backs Bowlers To Do Well Despite Saliva Ban

Few weeks of outdoor training will help players attain peak fitness: Vikram Rathour

With players forced to stay at home for over two months now,  Rathour feels that it will be extremely challenging for both bowlers and batsmen to attain peak form.

“It will be equally challenging for both – batsmen and the bowlers – to get back to their peak form after a long break like this,” Rathour said.

Recently, Shardul Thakur drew a lot of ire from the BCCI for starting training without prior permission but Vikram Rathour feels that it is good that players have started training during the lockdown. He also added that the fitness routines of all players are being closely tracked by the trainers and physios and he feels that once outdoor training starts, a training camp of 4-6 months will be enough for players to be ready for international cricket.

“The good thing is that most of the players have been managing to train well during the lockdown. Their fitness routines are being monitored closely by the trainers and physios. So, we are hoping that whenever the outdoor sessions start, it will be a matter of a few weeks of practice and then they should be ready to start playing some practice/domestic matches and then on to international cricket.” Vikram Rathour added.

Also Read: Javagal Srinath Reckons Sweat Is A Good Alternative For Saliva To Shine The Ball