Starc’s honest handle against the use of saliva in IPL 2025

Delhi Capitals star Aussie bowler Mitchell Starc recently shared his thoughts on the use of saliva in cricket, particularly distinguishing its impact on red-ball versus white-ball games. Following his impressive performance that helped Delhi Capitals (DC) claim victory over Rajasthan Royals (RR) on Wednesday at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Starc weighed in on a topic of interest among bowlers.

Saliva vs Sweat: Starc’s perspective

In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, the ICC had initially banned the use of saliva on cricket balls, a rule that the BCCI also enforced in the IPL. However, this ban was recently lifted. Despite the regulation changes, Starc expressed his preference for using sweat over saliva, especially in the context of white-ball cricket. Speaking on Saliva use, he said, “I don’t use it. I think it’s a myth,” he said in an interview with Star Sports. “Some people think they swear by it. I don’t know what the difference is with sweat and saliva. I don’t reckon it makes a difference. It can make a difference on the red ball. I don’t reckon it makes a difference on the white ball.” he added.

Starc’s stellar performance in IPL 2025

Starc has been instrumental for Delhi Capitals this season, showing his class in both regular play and in clutch moments. During the game against RR, he took a crucial wicket of Nitish Rana and successfully defended nine runs in the final over, pushing the match into a Super Over. In that deciding over, he expertly delivered yorkers to prevent RR’s batsmen Yashasvi Jaiswal, Riyan Parag, and Shimron Hetmyer from gaining control.

Currently, Starc is the second-highest wicket-taker for DC in IPL 2025 with 10 wickets from six matches, including a five-wicket haul against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH).

Delhi to face Gujarat Titans

As the Delhi Capitals prepare to face Gujarat Titans (GT) at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Starc, who was also the Player of the Match in the IPL 2024 final, will be aiming to continue his strong performance. His contribution remains important to DC’s campaign, with his experience and skill as a fast bowler proving invaluable in high-pressure situations.