Saliva ban lifted, two new balls allowed during night matches: Check new rules for IPL 2025

The recently conducted all-captains' meeting ahead of the IPL 2025 has brought some new rulings for the upcoming tournament. After having a long discussion, the Board for Cricket Control in India (BCCI) has uplifted the saliva ban and allowed the use of two new balls during the second innings of the night matches during the IPL.

Saliva ban revoked for IPL 2025

In a fresh development, the BCCI has officially lifted the ban on the use of saliva for IPL 2025 following a complaint from India's premier fast bowler Mohammed Shami, as reported by Cricbuzz. The ban was initially implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic as part of safety protocols, preventing players from applying saliva to the ball. However, the apex body has now allowed the bowlers to use saliva that will assist them in reverse swinging the ball.

Introduction of two new balls in IPL 2025

The teams bowling in the second innings of the night matches during the IPL 2025 would now be allowed to use two new balls. The rule has been introduced to ensure a better balance between bat and ball during the matches.

The changes would rule out the dew factor and advantage that the batting team gets from it. However, the second would be available only after the completion of 11 overs in the second innings.

Furthermore, the rule comes with additional conditions—umpires will assess the dew levels before deciding whether the second ball should be introduced. Afternoon matches are unlikely to see this rule applied.

No more captain bans for slow over-rates

In another key decision, the BCCI has removed the ban on IPL captains for slow over-rates. Instead, a demerit-point system has been introduced to address the issue.

For a Level 1 offence, players will face fines ranging from 25% to 75% of their match fees. A Level 2 offence, deemed more severe, will result in four demerit points, which will be tracked for three years.