Why do Cricketers Shine the Ball?

In cricket, the norm of shining the ball has been followed ever since the game was introduced. Normally, this method is used by the fielding side so that it becomes easier for the bowlers to swing the ball and get the movement off the pitch.

This method will help the bowlers of the fielding team get wickets. Usually, the players shine the ball by rubbing it on their trousers to get the movement.

But why is this norm followed? We explain this method in detail.

Shining the Cricket Ball 

Players shine the ball on one side, which allows the ball to swing as that shiny area gets smooth, while the other side remains as it is, which becomes rough after it comes in contact with the pitch and bat.

While delivering the ball, the smoother side of the ball moves fast in the air as there is a pressure difference on both sides, and so the ball moves in the direction of the rough side.

Also Read | Which Cricket Ball Swings the Most – Red, White or Pink?

Method of Shining the Cricket Ball 

Previously, players used their saliva to shine the ball, which might sound weird, but this was the way the ball was shined. But now players are only allowed to use their sweat to shine the ball.

The middle and index fingers are used to shine the ball. If some areas of the ball are scratched on the shiny side, then the players try to polish them in between overs or deliveries.

The fact of the matter is only one side of the ball should be polished, while the other side needs to be rough and scratched. After applying the sweat, the players polish the shiny side on their trousers, usually on the thigh.

The Ball Should be Kept Dry 

Excessive moisture can affect the swing. When it comes to applying sweat, it should be noted that the ball should be held on the fingertips or on the seam.

Sometimes excess sweat is applied, due to which excess moisture is absorbed. Playing in damp conditions, there will be more moisture on the field, so in these situations, the ball needs to be dried in between overs or deliveries, and to do this, fielders should have towels with them.

The ball should be kept dry to get reverse swing and it is possible only in dry conditions and only if one side of the ball is rough and scratched, while it is not possible to get reverse swing if the ball absorbs more moisture.

Also Read | Who Invented Reverse Swing in Cricket?

Dedicated Player to Shine the Ball

Polishing and shining the ball is also a skill, and the fielding team or the captain should allot this task to a player who is accurate with this task rather than appointing different players after every delivery or in between overs.

Ricky Ponting, Alastair Cook, Mohammad Azharuddin, Brendon Mccullum, etc. were some players who had the skill to shine the ball. Most importantly, the fielder who possesses this skill should be the one whose fielding position is inside the ring so that he can exchange a few words with the bowler regarding this.

Which Side of the Ball Should be Shined? 

It is up to the fielding team which side they want to use, but it should be used constantly throughout the innings. During the start of an innings, other team members should be informed which part is used to shine, as some cricket balls have a shape and design that helps to tell.

Kookaburra balls have a logo on one side, which helps in identifying the shiny side, and the same area can be used for the entire innings. The only thing that matters is that both sides shouldn’t be applied with moisture that would affect the swing.

Ball Tampering

There have been instances in the past where players have been criticised and punished for changing the condition of the ball. Applying sugary sweets is another method to attain shine, but it is against the law.

Former England player Michael Atherton was seen applying dirt to the ball in 1994, while some Australian players used Sandpaper to get the shine and make one side rough.

Conclusion

Unless and until a player uses legal means to shine the ball by sticking to the rules of the game, then it’s alright.

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