With Or Without Saliva, Mohammed Shami Says He Can Get Reverse Swing

India fast-bowler Mohammed Shami has stated that he can still get reverse swing going even after the proposed ban of use of saliva. In the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, ICC’s Cricket Committee has proposed the ban of saliva for the safety of the players and officials on the field.

Not very surprisingly, the decision has not impressed many. The likes of Mitchell Starc, Steve Smith as well as India pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah have made it clear that they are not too impressed with the decision. But unlike them and many others, Mohammed Shami did not sound too bothered.

The right-arm pacer said that he can extract reverse swing irrespective of the use of saliva, provided that the shine of the ball is properly maintained.

“There will be difficulties. We have been accustomed to using saliva since childhood. It’s been deeply ingrained … If you are a fast bowler, instinctively you apply saliva to shine the ball. But yes, if you can maintain the shine of the dry ball, it will definitely reverse,” Mohammed Shami said in an Instagram chat.

The ICC Cricket Committee headed by Anil Kumble has said players can use sweat to polish the ball. Speaking on that, Mohammed Shami said it will not help a fast bowler.

“Sweat and saliva work differently. I don’t think it will help. I never tried bowling without saliva. Now because of COVID-19 pandemic, it’s very important to stop using saliva,” said the India ace.

Mohammed Shami further spoke about India’s historic win in Australia in 2018-19 Test series. India won the series 2-1 to register their first-ever Test series win on the Australian soil. Recalling the series, he said that the players partied hard and stated that the upcoming series will be one to watch out for. India are scheduled to tour Australia towards the end of this year.

“We had partied long with team and family members on the top floor. We remember that series no one played selfishly. We want to take challenge anywhere. It will be one to watch and play for,” said Mohammed Shami.

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