Indian fast bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar stated that the Men in Blue might limit the use of saliva for shining the ball during the ODI series against South Africa that begins in Dharamsala from Thursday, March 12 2020. The move comes as a precautionary step in the wake of the deadly coronavirus outbreak that has spread panic all over the world. Bhuvi, who is returning from injury, stated that the final decision will be taken by the team doctor.
“We have thought about this thing (not using saliva) but I can’t say right now we will not use saliva because if we don’t use saliva then how will we shine the ball. Then we will get hit and you people will say you are not bowling well.”
The 31-year-old had been out of the Indian team since the World Cup last year but returned to play the T20I series against West Indies. However, his sports hernia aggravated, which put question marks over the National Cricket Academy and why the approval had been given to Bhuvi to play.
“But it’s a valid point and let’s see we will have a team meeting today and whatever instruction we get or whatever is the best option we will do. It all depends on the team doctor and what advice he gives us,” he added.
Thus far, 40 positive cases of coronavirus have been detected in India, and there are serious question marks over the Indian Premier League as well. Reports suggest that Maharashtra, Karnataka and Chennai might not host the IPL matches. However, a final decision will be taken by the BCCI in the next two to three days.
South Africa, on their part, will not take part in the customary handshake after the match, with head coach Mark Boucher adding that the no-handshake policy is a precaution that they are taking.
The Proteas were allowed to tour India after being given the clearance from their medical and security team.
