In a surprising yet strategic move, Gujarat Titans coach Ashish Nehra was seen instructing his bowlers to use saliva on the ball—a tactic now officially permitted following the BCCI’s rule changes for IPL 2025. This comes during GT’s match against Mumbai Indians at the Narendra Modi Stadium, where the hosts are defending a target of 196.
As per the new regulations finalized during the captains and managers’ meeting on March 20, the saliva ban introduced during the pandemic has been lifted. Bowlers can now legally use saliva to shine the ball and extract movement, especially under lights. The meeting also introduced a second ball in the second innings, starting from the 12th over, to combat dew and ensure balance.
At the end of 13 overs, MI are 108/4, needing 89 runs from 42 balls with the required run rate climbing to 12.71. GT’s bowlers have started applying the rule change effectively, with the impact already visible in terms of tighter lines and better control.
Latest Wickets:
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Tilak Varma was dismissed for 39(36), caught at deep mid-wicket off a slower delivery by Prasidh Krishna.
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Robin Minz was the latest to fall, scoring just 3 before being caught by Ishant Sharma off R Sai Kishore, who has so far been expensive but crucial.
Key Stats:
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Suryakumar Yadav is holding fort at 45 off 23 balls* (1 four, 4 sixes, SR: 195.65)
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GT bowlers using new rules smartly, especially with Ishant and Prasidh making an impact
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Last 5 overs: 39 runs, 2 wickets
Nehra’s call to remind his players of the revised saliva rule seems to be paying off, as GT continue to push MI on a two-paced Ahmedabad pitch. With dew no longer a major factor thanks to the second new ball rule, it could come down to smart execution—and Nehra is making sure his side knows the rulebook inside out.
