The Delhi Capitals’ captain Axar Patel and head coach Hemang Badani have expressed their approval for the new rules allowing for a change of ball after the 10th over in evening matches and the usage of saliva to shine the ball in the ongoing IPL season. The ball replacement option aims to counter the impact of dew, with the bowling captain able to request a new ball, regardless of visible dew. The umpires will then replace the ball with one of similar wear and tear.
Axar Patel believes these changes will benefit bowlers in executing their plans effectively. He mentioned that the current focus in IPL is on the batters, so any advantage for the bowlers is a positive development for the game. The usage of saliva can help pacers achieve reverse swing, especially towards the end of the innings.
Hemang Badani emphasized the importance of maintaining a balance between bat and ball in cricket. He welcomed the lifting of the saliva ban, as it gives bowlers a fair chance to compete. The change of ball rule also provides the fielding side in the second innings an opportunity to stay competitive, particularly in challenging conditions.
Both Axar and Badani believe that these new rules are a step in the right direction towards bringing back the equilibrium between batting and bowling in the game. They acknowledge the difficulties faced by bowlers, especially spinners, with a wet ball and see these changes as beneficial for the overall balance of the sport.
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