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Key Points

Mohammed Shami has highlighted significant changes in IPL 2025 that could potentially rebalance the game for bowlers. The veteran pacer discussed new BCCI rules allowing ball replacement and lifting the saliva ban, which he believes will help bowlers regain some advantage. Shami also spoke passionately about his recovery from injury and his renewed role with Sunrisers Hyderabad. His insights underscore the evolving landscape of cricket and the importance of adapting to new challenges.

Key Points: Shami Praises IPL 2025 Rule Changes for Bowlers' Balance

  • BCCI lifts saliva ban to help bowlers regain swing
  • Shami highlights SRH's balanced bowling strategy
  • Pat Cummins praised for calm leadership approach
  • IPL provides critical platform for emerging cricket talents
3 min read

IPL 2025: Being able to change wet ball is a big plus, says SRH pacer Mohammed Shami

Mohammed Shami reveals how new IPL regulations and SRH's approach are transforming cricket dynamics for bowlers and young talents.

"IPL is a great platform for youngsters to showcase their character, potential, and skills - Mohammed Shami"

New Delhi, May 5

India and Sunrisers Hyderabad pacer Mohammed Shami has hailed the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) decision to reverse the saliva ban and allow replacement of the wet ball in the second innings to counter dew in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. The veteran pacer feels that it is a big boost for making the game balance for both batters and bowlers.

“For a long time, the rules have favoured batters - but now, things are finally shifting a bit. After COVID, the saliva ban made it tough to reverse the ball, but with that lifted, bowlers can finally get some swing back. Also, being able to change a wet ball is a big plus - a dry ball gives better grip and life, especially in tough conditions," Shami said on JioHotstar’s special series “Gen Gold”.

The 34-year-old recounted his knee injury and how he returned to competitive cricket by playing domestic matches.

“Injuries are part and parcel of a fast bowler’s life. My recovery took 14 months, and it wasn’t easy, especially given the challenges I faced during my domestic career. Regaining rhythm and the right mindset was tough. In 2023, I had a sudden breakdown, so I made it a point to play as many domestic matches as possible - ended up playing 12 or 13. That, along with the England series, helped me rebuild my confidence. When it comes to performance, I’ve always focused on giving my best.”

Shami said that playing for SRH has changed his perspective and added that his role is to give the best for his side.

“SRH has completely changed my perspective - what used to be a 200-run target now feels like 300. They’ve redefined the game. As for my role, I want to be part of a team that sets new benchmarks and shifts mindsets. I feel I’ve joined a strong unit, and I’m focused on contributing my best. We’ve built a strong bowling unit as well at SRH - a solid pace attack and quality spinners to back it. Overall, our bowling is much more balanced now, and those who think SRH is only about batting are mistaken," he said.

Shami also lauded the IPL as a great platform for youngsters to showcase their talent to the world.

“IPL is a great platform for youngsters to showcase their character, potential, and skills. It's encouraging to see them step up - it shows how bright the future of Indian cricket really is. There's no shortage of talent coming through this league,” the Indian pacer said.

Reflecting on SRH captain Pat Cummins, Shami called him a calm captain. "Calmness is key in leadership. A calm captain can bring out the best in his players. Knowing each player's potential is crucial, and Pat Cummins does that exceptionally well. Having captained for years, he has the experience, and managing both international and young players comes naturally to him."

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
Finally some balance in T20 cricket! Bowlers were becoming mere bowling machines with all rules favoring batsmen. The wet ball change rule is much needed - dew makes it impossible to grip properly in night matches. Kudos BCCI for listening to players like Shami 🙌 #FairCricket
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Priya M.
Shami's comeback story is so inspiring! 14 months recovery and still bowling with such fire 🔥 His dedication to play domestic cricket shows true passion. Hope he gets back to Team India soon - we need his experience in the pace attack.
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Arjun S.
While rule changes are good, I hope they don't over-compensate and make batting too difficult. T20 is meant to be entertaining with big hits! Maybe keep one new ball from each end but allow some swing early on. Balance is key.
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Sneha R.
SRH's strategy this season is revolutionary! Making 200 look small is changing T20 dynamics. Shami-Bhuvi-Cummins trio is deadly 💪 Hope they can maintain this form in playoffs. #OrangeArmy
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Vikram J.
Shami is absolutely right about IPL being the best platform for youngsters. Look at Mayank Yadav this season - raw pace discovered because of IPL! Our bench strength in fast bowling is unbelievable now. Future looks bright for Indian cricket 🇮🇳
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Neha T.
As a cricket fan from Hyderabad, I'm so proud to have Shami in our team! His experience is gold for young bowlers like Nitish Reddy. That comment about Cummins' calm leadership is spot on - you can see the difference in SRH's body language this season.

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