The umpires were forced to disinfect the ball on day four of the second Test between England and West Indies after Dom Sibley inadvertently applied saliva to the ball.
The use of saliva to shine the ball is currently banned by the ICC to reduce the risks of Covid-19 transmission; a team is issued two warnings per innings on the matter before a five-run penalty is imposed. The use of sweat to shine the ball is permitted.
On-field umpire Michael Gough was seen using a wipe on the ball prior to the start of the 42nd over of West Indies’ second innings after the England batsman admitted to using saliva to the officials.
Sibley’s actions were met with praise by Ian Bishop on commentary for Sky Cricket.
“That’s good, to have the players policing themselves is important in this Covid-19 era, because you’re dealing with the health of individuals, not just wins and losses in the game,” said Bishop.
